13th September 2025
In line with the National Action Plan to Eliminate Bribery and Corruption from Sri Lanka, the Presidential Secretariat and the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), in collaboration with the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) of the Sri Lanka Army, successfully conducted a one-day Anti-Corruption Training Programme on 12 September 2025 at the Army Headquarters Auditorium, Colombo.
Held under the theme “Towards a State with Integrity”, the programme brought together nearly 1,900 participants. A total of 103 officers and Other Ranks attended physically at Army Headquarters, while approximately 1,800 personnel joined virtually via Zoom. The training was conducted on the direction of the Commander of the Army and under the guidance of the Chief of Staff, Head of the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU), together with the Adjutant General, who serves as the Army’s Integrity Officer.
The event commenced with welcome remarks and an outline of objectives, followed by an address from Ms. Chandima Wickramasinghe, Additional Secretary to the President, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest and Guest Speaker. She highlighted the pivotal role of Internal Affairs Units in fostering integrity within state institutions. This was followed by an in-depth session conducted by Ms. Thanuja Bandara, Assistant Director General of CIABOC, who elaborated on the nature of corruption, its impact on national resources, and international best practices in addressing such challenges. Participants were also educated on the Sri Lankan legal framework, preventive mechanisms, and the specific powers and responsibilities entrusted to CIABOC in combating bribery and corruption.
The programme concluded with participant feedback, an evaluation of the sessions, and a vote of thanks. It marked a vital step in enhancing the professionalism, transparency, and ethical conduct of Army officers, ensuring alignment with the government’s vision of a corruption-free Sri Lanka.
