The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) plans to propose a special unit to handle declarations made in respect of the Asset and Liabilities Law.

Director General, CIABOC, Sarath Jayamanne, PC, yesterday told The Island that formation of such a unit, perhaps under the CIABOC, would help verify declarations made by those coming within the Asset and Liabilities Law.

Having received cabinet approval, the CIABOC initiated action to amend the Asset and Liabilities Law that hadn’t been amended since 1988, Jayamanne said, adding that in March this year they had a series of consultations, with both local and foreign experts, to formulate plans.

Responding to a query, Jayamanne said they would engage in deliberations over a period of three days, this week, to finalize their proposals before being sent to the cabinet.

Jayamanne said that significant changes were required to update the Asset and Liabilities Law to address current challenges.The top official emphasized the pivotal importance of having a special unit to ensure verification of declarations. The proposed amendments would enhance the scope of the Asset and Liabilities Law to bring staff of lawmakers et al and members of Provincial Council within its purview.

Jayamanne said that they were contemplating far reaching proposals to face the challenging task of restoring financial discipline.

Among those expected to come under scrutiny, in accordance with the expanded Asset and Liabilities law, are diplomats, public-private sector joint ventures and even retired public servants.