🚨 Illegal Liquor License Scandal: Bribery, Corruption, and Abuse of Power in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰

⭕ In 2024, under Ranil Wickremesinghe’s government, up to 80 liquor licenses were issued days before the election, allegedly in exchange for political support. A total of 172 licenses were granted that year.

⭕ The then Finance Minister, also a presidential candidate, faces accusations of bribery, ethical violations, and misuse of authority in issuing these licenses.

⭕ Licenses were granted to political allies, including a 19-year-old minister’s son, relatives, and prominent businessmen, raising serious ethical concerns.

⭕ Two SJB MPs were reportedly offered licenses on the condition they appear at ruling party events. Their licenses were withheld when they failed to comply.

⭕ Further investigations revealed licenses were issued to spouses, private secretaries of ministers, and even a managing director of a liquor company—blatantly violating legal procedures.

⭕ Evidence suggests commission fees from these licenses were funneled to influential ministers, fueling allegations of political corruption.

⭕ Politicians reportedly laundered black money through these licenses, with one license resold multiple times—from LKR 2B, then LKR 600M, and finally LKR 10M.

⭕ The Excise Department is accused of withholding critical documents, obstructing ongoing investigations and justice.

⭕ The current government must act urgently to investigate, revoke illegal licenses, and enforce stringent legal frameworks to restore public trust and ensure accountability.

Source - https://t.co/cWfwELseLU

#SriLanka #Corruption #Bribery #LiquorScandal #GoodGovernance