Bribery Commission expedited action on corruption cases: FM

By Ajith Siriwardana   
The government has already commenced investigations into certain key matters, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said the Bribery Commission has already expedited action related to cases of alleged corruption.   
Addressing the Colombo-based diplomatic corps, the Minister said the President has placed high emphasis on ethical governance, 
elimination of corruption, efficiency in public service and fostering a new political culture that embodies the rule of law, accountability and integrity.   
“We believe that economic success must be accompanied by these supportive pillars. in line with the commitments made by us on zero tolerance of bribery and corruption, we have already commenced investigations into certain key matters. The Bribery Commission has already expedited action related to cases of alleged corruption,” he said.    The Minister also informed the diplomatic corps that, as directed by the President, investigative authorities have already announced the redoubling of investigations into a number of clearly identified accountability cases that were pending from the past.   

“The government has taken steps to end the era of division based on race, religion, class and other differences and build a nation that respects diversity. We are ready to bring necessary constitutional, economic and political reforms towards this end. The government will protect democracy and human rights of all citizens including addressing past issues. As directed by the President, investigative authorities have already announced redoubling of investigations into a number of clearly identified accountability cases that were pending from the past,” he added.    The minister said the government had productive discussions with the visiting IMF team, who reiterated their support to Sri Lanka and pointed out that the debt restructuring process is near completion, enabling the government to proceed towards the third review of the IMF programme.   
“We will work closely with the team on the next phase relating to the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the related reform programme,” he said.