Sri Lanka needs a new procurement law: MP

By Yohan Perera 

Whilst highlighting that there are many issues pertaining to government procurement, Opposition MP Harsha de Silva yesterday said the country needs a new procurement law. 

Speaking during a discussion organised by People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL), Dr De Silva said introducing a new procurement law is a clause in the agreement which the Sri Lankan government had entered into with the IMF. 

He said there are many issues with regard to government procurement, especially when one looks at corruption.  “Failure to enforce the rule of law equally is another issue today. There are corruption allegations against those in the government, but no action is being taken. Only those who are in the opposition are being arrested. Justice not only prevails but it should be meted out equally,” he said in this regard. 

Also, he noted that the government has failed to keep some of its electoral pledges. “The government pledged to amend the extended fund facility agreement with the IMF. The government also pledged to amend debt restructuring agreements. None of these pledges are fulfilled today. One cannot take this situation lightly,” he said in this regard.