Combat Procurement Fraud and Corruption - AKD

COLOMBO (News 1st) – President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has emphasized the need for stringent measures to prevent procurement fraud and corruption. 

This statement was made during a meeting with officials from the National Procurement Commission at the President's Office.

The President highlighted the importance of implementing a structured plan to strengthen the National Procurement Commission. 

According to a statement from the President's Media Division, President Dissanayake engaged in extensive discussions with officials regarding the current procurement laws and processes.

Officials pointed out existing issues related to the non-compliance with current laws and guidelines in procurement activities. 

They noted that approximately 60% of all government expenditures, including capital expenditures, should be conducted through proper procurement processes. 

However, due to deficiencies in these processes, the government incurs significant losses, creating more opportunities for fraud and corruption.

The discussions also covered potential delays, lack of transparency, and inefficiencies in the procurement process. 

President Dissanayake stressed the need to expand the powers of the National Procurement Commission and to implement systematic procurement plans to address these issues.