People’s Mandate is Not a License to Misuse State Funds – President Anura

28-Aug-2025

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“All are equal before the law. No one will be granted special privileges. Corrupt individuals and those who have misused state funds will be brought before the law. This is not political revenge. I will not halt my decision to strictly enforce the rule of law. Let those who wish shout and cry. The people’s mandate is not a license to defraud state funds, and we will ensure this principle is upheld,” said President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

He made these remarks while addressing the National Bhikku Day celebrations held at the Presidential Secretariat on August 26.

The President further stated:
“The state administration has collapsed in many ways, a reflection of the past. The wife of a Deputy Inspector General is engaged in treasure hunting, while the DIG himself watches. Where is the country heading? Even a senior military officer has been involved in treasure hunting. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether a woman was sacrificed in the process.
Prisoners have been released illegally without authorization. The Immigration and Emigration Department has issued passports to underworld leaders. Weapons meant for state security have been sold outside military camps—73 T-56 rifles have been reported missing.
Public officials have traded their responsibilities for money, leading to the collapse of both the social fabric and the economy. Large buildings have been constructed, yet they serve no useful purpose.
No politician has the right to abuse state power. Leaders must act conscientiously before the people. Those who misappropriate public funds cannot then ask citizens to uphold faith in the law. The people’s mandate is not a license for corruption, and new laws will be introduced to ensure this.
Former Presidents are entitled to official residences by law, but no mention is made regarding their size. As a result, leaders have acquired homes of 35,000 sq. ft. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Rs. 400 million of public funds were spent on renovating such residences. These special privileges will be revoked starting next month.
If this country is to be corrected, such strict decisions must be taken. State institutions must function within the powers vested in them by the Constitution. Severe legal measures will be implemented to rebuild this nation, which has collapsed across many sectors. Everyone must work together.”