News Today: Minister Sunil Handunnetti Requests Presidential Commission to Investigate Corruption in Former Politicians

In a bold statement made in Parliament, Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti has called for the establishment of a Presidential Commission to investigate former ministers and politicians accused of accepting bribes from investors. This request was made during the Committee Stage Budget debate, where the Minister emphasized the need to uncover those who profited illegally from their positions of power.

Handunnetti revealed that numerous investors are willing to come forward and provide valuable information about politicians who have taken bribes in the past. He strongly advocated for the President to set up an independent Presidential Commission tasked with investigating these claims. According to the Minister, many individuals who held high-ranking positions during the previous regime, particularly under the leadership of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, have been involved in corrupt practices, including accepting bribes and acquiring large tracts of land through illicit means.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of economic democracy, explaining that the current government has ensured that officials can act independently without interference from politicians. Handunnetti criticized former ministers who have now joined the opposition, accusing them of hypocrisy for defending individuals like Deshabandu Tennakoon, who has been linked to corruption charges in the past.

In his address, Handunnetti further emphasized that the current administration has maintained transparency, pointing out that none of the present government ministers have been accused of stealing or engaging in corrupt activities. He also noted that many of them are working without receiving salaries, further underscoring their commitment to serve the country without personal gain.

In a final statement, the Minister proudly affirmed that the government is showing strength on the global stage, particularly when dealing with international organizations like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), refusing to yield to external pressures. He pointed out that this stance has become a major point of contention for opposition parties, who are now questioning the government’s approach.

The Minister’s remarks have sparked significant discussions within the political landscape, and the call for a Presidential Commission to investigate corruption remains a hot topic among both lawmakers and the general public.