TISL calls for strong accountability and transparency in use of public funds for disaster relief

Having expressed its deepest condolences to families who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods from Cyclone Ditwah, Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) yesterday called for strong accountability and transparency in the use of public funds for disaster relief. 

“Past recovery efforts following national crises and disasters have often been marred by its management, delays, and insufficient transparency and accountability. These lessons underscore the need for rigorous oversight now: public funds mobilised for disaster relief must not become a source of new injustice or inequality,” TISL said in a statement. 

It welcomed the national address by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, which announced allocations of emergency funds and a commitment to rapid disaster relief and reconstruction. In his address, the President stated that the Government has allocated a reserve of Rs. 30 billion to support urgent relief needs. The President also announced that the expenditure limit per District Secretariat has been increased to Rs. 50 million, while restrictions imposed by previous circulars have been removed to ensure swift and unhindered response across all affected areas. 

Additionally, a special fund for the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure has been established, with instructions issued to relevant agencies to initiate fundraising efforts.

Parallel to this, Government officials have been called upon to submit factually accurate Budget estimates to implement a rapid and evidence-based national reconstruction plan.

Given the scale of public funds being deployed during this emergency within a short timeframe, TISL acknowledged the immense responsibility placed on public officials who are working under these difficult conditions. 

“Emergency situations inherently create constraints on oversight and procurement processes. In this context, we respectfully call upon the Government and all public sector institutions and officers to remain attentive to principles of transparency, efficiency, and responsible financial management. Doing so will not only safeguard public resources but also strengthen the trust and confidence that communities place in public institutions – especially at a time when people are relying on them the most,” TISL said. 

While appreciating the prompt appointment of the Management Committee of the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, TISL expressed concern, and urged the Government to recognise that the effectiveness and public trust of the Fund depend on a robust structure built on diversity, civil society representation, and transparency. 

Gender diversity is paramount, as women often experience the impacts of disasters differently and possess unique insights into community needs and resource allocation, ensuring that recovery efforts are equitable. 

Furthermore, including civil society organisation (CSO) representatives ensures the inclusion of essential grassroots experience, accountability, and independent oversight—a crucial check on both public and private sector interests. Complete transparency in fund management, independent auditing, and the clear disclosure of beneficial ownership of all committee members is non-negotiable, serving as a safeguard against corruption vulnerabilities, potential conflicts of interest, and misuse of donations, thereby ensuring every donation reaches those impacted by the Cyclone.

TISL said, on 29 November, the President convened CSOs for consultations on strengthening the crisis-response process. During the meeting, CSO representatives requested clear Government directions for district and divisional authorities to work with CSOs as partners, highlighted gaps in Tamil-language communication, and stressed the need to uphold the dignity of the Sri Lankan people – drawing on lessons from COVID-19. They also called for smoother facilitation of incoming relief, encouraged an inclusive and community-building approach, and raised concerns about risks associated with the emergency declaration. 

The President agreed to appoint focal points from the Presidential Secretariat or relevant Ministries to ensure continued coordination with CSOs. These commitments, if implemented effectively, will play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of citizens affected by this national crisis.

“Moreover, it is important that citizens provide only accurate information to officials and act responsibly in the distribution and use of relief funds and support. During these trying times, both Government and the public have a shared duty to safeguard public resources and uphold fairness, transparency, and integrity. Working together with these values at the centre is crucial to ensure that recovery efforts strengthen, and not strain, our communities,” TISL said.

TISL said it has and will always stand alongside the people of Sri Lanka and is prepared to support all recovery measures that uphold transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of public funds, so that communities can rebuild with dignity, and trust in the systems that serve them.