Civil Society Groups To Demand Investigations Into Politicos On Avant Garde Payroll

November 09, 2015

Several civil society groups are presently holding discussions to launch a campaign demanding authorities to inquire into MPs and candidates who were on the payroll of Avant Garde company. 

"It is an open secret that even some ministers in the present cabinet are funded by the controversial security firm. Some ministers had openly claimed that the company attempted to bribe them. Therefore, it is important to hold a transparent inquiry into them in line with the principles of 'good governance," a key member of the Puravesi Balaya organisation told Asian mirror. 

Commenting on Law and Order Minister Thilak Marapana's resignation, he sad it was just an opening and the government should take stronger steps to ensure good governance. 

Fingers have been pointed at Home Affairs Minister Vajira Abeywardena and Justice Minister Wijedasa Rajapakshe for being supportive of the private security firm which is at the centre of a major controversy. 

He added that the civil society groups would exert pressure on the government to hold a fair and transparent inquiry into Avant Garde company, owned by former Army officer Nisshanka Senadhipathy. 

Senadhipathy, an ally of former Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, is also known to be a close friend of several top notch politicians of the present government. 

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