Sarvajana Balaya Accuses Government of Double Standards Over Bribery Allegations

Sarvajana Balaya has criticised the government over allegations of bribery and corruption, questioning whether the authorities would take legal action against those accused of soliciting bribes.

Speaking at a media briefing on November 12, Sarvajana Balaya General Secretary Ranjan Senewiratne referred to recent remarks by Ranjan Jayalal, who had reportedly invited others to offer bribes.

Senewiratne said such remarks did not surprise his organisation, adding that he recalled how government representatives had previously accused others of corruption while seeking political power. He alleged that the current administration had engaged in even greater levels of corruption.

He expressed doubt over whether the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) would take action over the matter.

Senewiratne also speculated that Jayalal's remarks might have been prompted by dissatisfaction over the treatment he received within his political party, suggesting that other party members enjoyed privileges such as hotel stays and overseas travel that may not have been available to him as a mayor.

He stressed that even a request for a bribe should be sufficient grounds for legal action, arguing that people should not have to wait until a bribe is actually paid.

He further claimed that bribery could occur indirectly, including in situations involving the admission of children to schools.

Responding to calls for opposition members to lodge formal complaints, Senewiratne said law enforcement authorities should act where the law applies equally to everyone, rather than placing the responsibility solely on the opposition.

He also questioned remarks reportedly made by Minister Sunil Handunnetti concerning the possibility of avoiding legal proceedings by being declared mentally unsound.

Senewiratne alleged that senior figures within the government were attempting to shift blame onto others to conceal their own wrongdoing.

Public Spending Must Benefit Citizens, Says Professional Association Chairman

Meanwhile, Dr. Chaminda Mallalasekara, Chairman of the Sarvajana Balaya Professionals' Association, said that increasing government treasury reserves alone would not benefit the public.

He stressed that public funds should be spent on providing essential facilities and services required by citizens.