Political interference in recruitment to State institutions

Tuesday, 26 August 2025 00:52 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

I wish to draw attention to a matter that strikes at the heart of good governance — political interference in recruitment to state institutions. It is no secret that Members of Parliament and other powerful figures often issued letters recommending or requesting jobs for individuals who were their close supporters, regardless of their qualifications, competence and reputation for honesty.

A recommendation by itself may not be unlawful. However, when such influence overrides established recruitment procedures, it undermines fairness, transparency, and the principles of equal opportunity. State institutions are funded by the public and are bound to recruit through proper processes — open advertisement, competitive assessments and merit-based selection.

If jobs are handed out on influence peddling letters rather than merit, three grave consequences follow:

1. Qualified seniors and even youth are deprived of opportunities, leading to frustration and loss of faith in the system.

2. Public institutions lose credibility and transparency, being seen as instruments of patronage rather than service to the nation.

3. Pure political appointees start abusing the power behind their masters and end up by misusing their positions to the detriment of the department and the Ministry.

Decadent practice of appointing incompetent political favourites to extremely crucial posts such as diplomats, chairmen, delegates and even secretaries, have had extremely adverse consequences to the reputation and economic progress of the nation as a whole. It is essential that such practices are investigated and exposed. More importantly, strong action must be taken against those who misuse political power in this way

It is essential that such practices are investigated and exposed. More importantly, strong action must be taken against those who misuse political power in this way. Only firm consequences will serve as a deterrent to others in authority and restore public confidence that state employment is a right earned through merit, not a privilege for the connected few.

The decadent practice of appointing incompetent political favourites to extremely crucial posts such as diplomats, chairmen, delegates and even secretaries, have had extremely adverse consequences to the reputation and economic progress of the nation as a whole.

Trust the newly appointed diplomats have been thoroughly screened as to their track records concerning honesty, diligence, competence and dedication to service.

Those who feel that they were unfairly deprived of employment or their rightful positions due to such political preferences must be urged to lodge complaints with the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). Such formal complaints will enable CIABOC to initiate investigations and hold individuals accountable.A concerned Citizen - Moratuwa

A concerned citizen, Moratuwa