The recently concluded Presidential Election in Sri Lanka was significant for many reasons, one is that it has been reported as the most peaceful and non-violent Presidential election in the country’s history.
As the nation approaches the General Election, Election observers continue to note a paradigm shift in the political culture. Unlike previous Elections, there has been a dramatic decrease in reported election violations. So far, there have been minimal heavy poster campaigns, a notable reduction in environmentally harmful campaign practices and fewer large rallies with thousands of participants, with such events largely replaced by smaller pocket meetings. This progressive shift in political culture is not the result of an overnight change, but rather a culmination of numerous advocacy efforts led by election observer groups over the past few decades.
Misuse of public resources
Despite the positive signs in political culture, the misuse of public resources during election periods remains a common issue. There is a significant tendency among the public to turn a blind eye to this misuse, especially when it provides direct benefits to individuals. Recently, at a press conference, Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) emphasised that over 1,000 complaints regarding the misuse of public resources were reported during the presidential election.
As an observer group, they collaborated with the Election Commission to take action and prevent most instances of misconduct. During the press conference, they highlighted the need for public involvement to prevent or minimise the misuse of public resources in the General Election 2024. They also stressed that the people of the country should see it as their social responsibility to stand against the misconduct of public resources at all times.
Speaking at the press Thushanie Kandilpana, National Coordinator of the Programme for the Protection of Public Resources (PPPR) at TISL said, “We have deployed approximately 160 election observers across all districts to monitor the misuse of public resources during the General Election 2024. Since October 14, TISL has received 70 complaints, with many related to new appointments made in public institutions. We have received information about a contesting candidate being appointed to a public service position. A formal complaint was lodged with the Election Commission regarding this. We are closely monitoring the new ruling party for any misuse of public resources during its election campaign.
Several new Governors, Ministry Secretaries and Chairpersons have been appointed by the interim Government, and some may have political affiliations. We remind them to respect Election Laws, especially as stewards of public property. In the previous election, we saw significant misuse of power and public vehicles by governors for political purposes.”
Kandilpana said that TISL received 117 complaints involving public officials, leading the Election Commission to remove over 40 of them from election duties. Out of the 1,000 complaints regarding the misuse of public resources during the Presidential Elections, she noted that the investigations into several of these cases are still ongoing. For example, it was reported that Lanka Mineral Sands Ltd. hired 47 individuals during the Presidential election period, exceeding the necessary cadre. TISL is currently following up on this complaint with the Ministry of Industries and has stated that they will not hesitate to initiate legal action if the issue is not properly addressed.
Apesalli.lk
Recognising the critical challenge that needs to be addressed and the importance of increased public involvement as a social responsibility for every citizen, TISL has launched Apesalli.lk, which emerges as a vital platform for exposure and discussion dedicated to anti-corruption efforts in Sri Lanka. This website offers a unique opportunity for individuals to report incidents of bribery and share their personal experiences related to corruption within government, private, or civil society sectors.
“Apesalli.lk aims to encourage activism and advocacy, providing a voice to those who may feel powerless in the face of corrupt practices. The platform seeks to raise awareness and promote accountability, facilitating a community that stands united against corruption especially during this general election period,” Kandilpana said.
How it operates
One of the key reasons every citizen should engage with Apesalli.lk is the ongoing normalisation of bribery and corruption within society. Many individuals tend to overlook these practices, allowing a vicious cycle to continue. The platform addresses this issue by simplifying the process for citizens to take a stand. Users can easily report incidents or share their stories, which are then amplified by the platform to foster collective action against corruption.
When an individual reports an incident through Apesalli.lk, the platform follows a structured process to handle the complaint. Initially, the team filters the complaints received to assess their validity. They then independently verify the facts and may gather additional evidence if necessary. Complainants receive assistance in submitting their cases or can opt to have their complaints directed to the relevant authorities.
Personal experience
Sharing personal experiences of corruption can create a ripple effect. Apesalli.lk may publish these stories on the Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) website and social media, reaching a wide audience. Such narratives have the potential to inspire others to share their own experiences, helping to unearth trends or hotspots related to corruption. Ultimately, every shared experience, regardless of its perceived significance, contributes to the broader fight against corruption.
The platform encourages users to report various types of corruption, including bribery, which is defined as the offering or acceptance of undue advantages for illegal or unethical actions.
Bribery can manifest in several forms, such as gifts, loans, and rewards. The platform addresses issues such as sexual favors exchanged for public services, misuse of public funds or property, misuse of public positions, conflicts of interest and irregularities in public procurement.
“One significant feature of Apesalli.lk is the option for anonymity. Individuals can report and share their experiences without disclosing personal information, thereby maintaining their privacy. While sharing personal details can facilitate a deeper investigation and follow-up, the choice to remain anonymous empowers users to speak out without fear of retribution.” said Gowriswaran Kirupairajah, Senior Programme Manager at TISL.
Crucial role
Through Apesalli.lk, citizens can play a crucial role in taking action against corruption, fostering a sense of social responsibility and the importance of integrity. By coming together, individuals can inspire change and help build a society where integrity and accountability are valued. Moreover, participating in this initiative serves as a self-reflective act, highlighting that society is ultimately a mirror of our own actions.
Complaints can be submitted via the website www.apesalli.lk, through the hotline at 076 322 3442 (WhatsApp available), or by fax at 011 286 5777. Verified complaints will be forwarded to the Election Commission for further action.
