Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has filed a legal challenge against the government's Public Finance Management Bill in the Supreme Court, expressing concerns over its impact on public procurement. TISL argues that the bill, introduced for its first reading in Parliament on May 22, significantly weakens procurement controls, thereby increasing corruption risks and compromising fair competition.

The contentious provisions, particularly Clause 32, grant the Finance Minister the power to exempt State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) from adhering to National Procurement Guidelines and allow Provincial Councils to establish their own procurement rules. TISL's petition (SC SD 77/2024) claims these exemptions violate the constitutional principles of sovereignty and equal protection under the law.