Sri Lanka: Election funds not diverted for disaster relief, says PM

Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, stated in Parliament that funds earmarked for the provincial council elections have not been redirected to disaster relief efforts. She assured that all financial contributions from donors designated for disaster relief and the restoration of damaged infrastructure are safely deposited in a special account overseen by the Deputy Treasury Secretary.

The Prime Minister emphasized that these funds are intended for projects identified based on national priorities and needs. The allocation process will be transparent and efficient, focusing on providing relief to disaster-affected populations, restoring livelihoods, and rebuilding essential public infrastructure and services that have been damaged.

Amarasuriya further affirmed that the management and utilization of these funds will adhere to the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and good governance principles. This commitment aims to ensure public trust and the effective use of resources during a critical period of recovery and rebuilding.

The clarification comes amidst concerns about resource allocation during times of crisis, highlighting the government's efforts to maintain financial discipline and public confidence in its disaster management and recovery operations.