It was heartening to listen to the announcement over the airwaves this morning (14.05.2001) that the country’s new Bribery Commissioner, Mr. Arsecularatne was going to initiate an official probe into a case where a particular State employee had purchased a house for 36 lakhs when his income employment-wise effectively bars him from making such a luxurious purchase.

What must be taken note here is that there are tangible legal impediments, to a State employee being engaged in money-making business unless under the express approval of the powers that be. But this legal requirement is observed in the breach by a large section of the government servants. the average State employee finds it extremely difficult to manage his family affairs with the paltry salary he receives. It is a fact that well-over 50per cent of the teachers in government service are engaged in private tuition. Some government servants are employed part-time in bookies, casinos etc.

There are leading cops, excise officers and services bigwigs who have amassed, ill-gotten wealth to put up magnificent edifices for business as well as for residential purposes. The Departments of Emigration and Immiration, motor examiners and the customs are dens of rampant bribery and corruption and other sleazy dealings. kickbacks are the open sesame to get things done, and to bribe all concerned along the line is now virtually taken for granted. It is an open secret.

Declaration of assets for all parliamentarians, Members of the Provincial Councils and the Pradeshiya Sabhas must be made a pre-requisite if it has not already been done. Ministers and their deputies apart, there are several provincial councillors who have amassed wealth through doing shady deals. It is a fact that the children of most of them attend International Schools where the fees charged are prohibitive.

We hail the new Bribery Commissioner. He has surely started with a bang and let all the honest citizens of this country hope that he is not another case of a new broom sweeping well. All your readers will no doubt join me in wishing Mr. Aresecularatne more strength to his elbow to conduct his investigations without fear of favour, notwithstanding the status of the person or persons involved.
Al-Ud-Nabma
Battaramulla