National Anti-Corruption Action Plan launched

The National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP) 2025-2029 was launched by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery and Corruption (CIABOC) today.

 The initiative, led by CIABOC, received technical support from the United Nations Development Programme and funding totalling $ 900,000 USD from the government of Japan. It is part of the project “Promoting Economic Governance through Anti-Corruption Policy Support which aims to strengthen governance, enhance transparency, and reinforce the rule of law in Sri Lanka. 

The launch event was attended by  President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Hon. Chief Justice Murudu Fernando PC, Justice Neil Iddawela, Chairman of CIABOC, and other key government officials, diplomats, and representatives from international organizations.

The action plan follows the enactment of Sri Lanka's Anti-Corruption Act No. 09 of 2023. It emphasizes a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society approach to tackling corruption’s impact on economic stability and public trust. The NACAP builds on the 2019-2023 plan to provide a comprehensive approach to combating corruption across all levels of governance. Developed with input from national and provincial stakeholders, the plan aligns with Sri Lanka’s legal frameworks and incorporates international best practices. It focuses on strengthening national legal and policy frameworks, improving coordination among anti-corruption institutions, enhancing investigations and prosecutions of financial crimes, and promoting public engagement.

"Combating corruption requires a cultural shift, starting with instilling integrity from early childhood and prevention mechanisms and protection for witnesses are essential to support accountability," said Mr. R.S.A. Dissanayake, Director General of CIABOC.

 Akio Isomata, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, who also spoke at the event, stated that “Good governance is critical for sustainable development. The elimination of corruption is necessary for Sri Lanka to attract investment and achieve long-term growth. Effective implementation of the plan is essential for success.”

The NACAP is structured around four strategic pillars: Preventive Measures, Institutional Strengthening & Enforcement, Education, and Law & Policy Reform. It provides a timeline for implementation, with objectives for short, medium, and long-term progress.

Ms. Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative of UNDP in Sri Lanka, called the NACAP a "roadmap for transformation," and noted that full implementation will expose corruption and improve governance. "UNDP remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption efforts with a wide range of stakeholders," she noted.