Alert On The Retirement Of The Present Auditor General:TISL Emphasizes The Highest Constitutional Protection For The Auditor General’s Department
Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) brings to the notice of the public on the 12th of Auguest 2006 the retirement of Mr. S.C. Mayadunne, the present Auditor General, who has completed an illustrious and exemplary career as a public official for over 35 years, having an extraordinarily contributed to the financial integrity of the country. He was the motivation behind the proposed changes to the Auditor General’s Department and the draft Audit Act. He will be remembered as an Auditor General who had courage, integrity and credential to take up, within his mandate, some of the worst public sector corruption issues. The reports he has submitted to the Parliament, particularly in the recent past, have evoked a strong political debate, warranting legislative and executive actions which are yet to be taken.
Mr. Mayadunne’s retirement immediately raises the question of the behaviour of the appointing authority in the backdrop of the recent questionable constitutional appointments which by passed the Constitution. Under the 17th Amendment the, Auditor General should be appointed with the concurrence of the Constitutional Council, which is currently not in existence. While highlighting the importance of constitutional procedure, TISL is hoping the next Auditor General will have the required qualifications and integrity, will be able to discharge the functions of the Auditor General with a great sense of responsibilitys without fear or favor. TISL reiterates that the Auditor General’s position should be independent of any political interferences and no person with any political affiliations or background should be considered for the post.