Harsha complains of threats and intimidation

Chair of the Committee on Public Finance (COPF) MP Harsha de Silva yesterday (07) told Parliament of the challenges and intimidation he had faced while leading the inquiry into the outsourcing of issuance of on-arrival visas.

“This is not the first time I have faced resistance for unwavering commitment to transparency.”

Previously removed from the COPF Chair position twice – once for intervening in a corrupt coal tender that saved the country a significant sum – he was reappointed unanimously by the Opposition.”

The SJB MP said that under his leadership, the COPF had tackled numerous critical financial matters including:

Proposal of Casino Regulator to Implement the Betting and Gaming Levy Act based on international best practices

· Recommendations for Betting and Gaming Levy Act to improve government revenue

· CBSL salary hike review

· Inquiry into the EV Permits scheme and foregone taxes

· Improving VAT Equitability for Local Software Companies; Pickme Vs Uber

· Opposing the government’s removal of VAT exemptions on poshas, fertiliser, medical equipment, and ambulances.

· Wheat flour Scandal; directed towards auditor general for independent review.

· Recommended Drafting Anti-Dumping Laws

· Sugar Tax implementation and loss of government revenue

· Improving Port City Investment Climate; ensuring legal status of contracts and agreements

· Proposal to Combat period poverty via a voucher system

· Directives issued to Excise Dept on ‘Fake Stickers’ to collect due taxes

· Questioning the government’s attempt to increase import tax on milk powder, ultimately led to a price reduction.

· Successfully advocating for the redrafting of the Microfinance Bill due to its potential harm rather than benefit.

Despite this record, MP Harsha detailed the significant hurdles faced during the VFS inquiry. “Certain people not only tried to intimidate me but are now resorting to slinging mud, falsely accusing me of being in cahoots with VFS to hush things up,” he stated.

MP Harsha said he remained undeterred. “We will present a detailed report to Parliament, revealing everything we have uncovered during this investigation,” he declared. “I am committed to transparency and accountability in Sri Lankan governance, and these attempts to silence me will not succeed”, the MP added.