🚨 TISL Demands Transparency & Accountability for Disaster Relief Funds

• Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has called for rigorous oversight and accountability in the use of public funds for Cyclone Ditwah relief, citing past issues of mismanagement and insufficient transparency in national crises. • Government Financial Commitments: President A.K. Dissanayake announced an initial reserve of Rs. 30 Billion for urgent relief needs. • The expenditure limit per District Secretariat was increased to Rs. 50 Million, with restrictions removed for swift area response. • A special fund for infrastructure reconstruction has also been established, with fundraising initiated. • Accountability Calls: TISL urged public officials to maintain transparency, efficiency, and responsible financial management, especially during emergency procurement. • Key Fund Structure Demands: TISL stressed that the Management Committee of the 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund requires a robust structure based on: • Gender diversity and Civil Society Organisation (CSO) representation for equitable recovery and independent oversight. • Complete transparency, independent auditing, and disclosure of beneficial ownership to safeguard against corruption. • CSO Consultations: In a Nov 29 consultation, CSOs requested clearer directions for district authorities to partner with them, addressed gaps in Tamil communication, and called for smoother relief facilitation. The President agreed to appoint focal points for continued coordination. • TISL emphasizes a shared duty between the Government and the public to uphold fairness and integrity in the distribution and use of relief funds.