Transparency International fumes over Govt.'s inertia over RTI Chief vacancy

Calls on President and Constitutional Council to expedite appointment of Chairperson to RTI Commission without further delay, showcasing genuine commitment to anti-corruption in Sri Lanka

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TRANSPARENCY International Sri Lanka (TISL) has expressed its deep concern over the inertia in appointing the Chairperson of the Right to Information (RTI) Commission.

As of 9 July 2025, Sri Lanka’s RTI Commission remains without a duly appointed Chairperson. The seat has been vacant since the resignation of retired Supreme Court Justice Upaly Abeyrathne in March 2025.

“The undue delay in the appointment, despite calls by concerned stakeholders, including civil society and media, to expedite the appointment process in view of the significant role played by the Chairperson in ensuring the effective operation of the Commission and safeguarding the people’s right to information, raises legitimate concerns,” TISL said in a statement.

The RTI Act mandates that the Commission consists of five Commissioners to function at its optimum efficiency, representing a rich diversity and expertise in opinion. It is, therefore, imperative that the Commission have its full membership, including the significant role played by the Chairperson.