Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) provided a detailed statement to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) today, pursuant to a complaint filed by TISL on 5 November, relating to allegations of attempts to bribe MPs.
In the statement provided today, TISL officials highlighted to CIABOC investigators that the contents of telephone conversation recordings shared with the media recently by Palitha Range Bandara MP, clearly indicate an offence under Section 14 of the Bribery Act.
TISL Executive Director Asoka Obeyesekere said, “there are 3 key points to flag from the recorded conversations. One is the offer of 500 million rupees (50 crores) to crossover. Secondly, the offer to pay the amount in US dollars and thirdly, the willingness to carry out the transaction in Anamaduwa.”
The offence of bribing a member of parliament carries a prescribed prison term of up to 7 years under the provisions of the Bribery Act. CIABOC officials confirmed to TISL today that an investigation has been initiated into the complaint and that statements would be obtained from the relevant parties.
Obeyesekere added, “we hope that upon the conclusion of this investigation, those who sought to bribe MPs will be held to account and that anybody attempting to do so in the future is mindful of the consequences”.