Several organizations, including the United Workers’ Federation, have jointly requested President Anura Dissanayake to remove Duminda Hulangamuwa from his position as Economic Advisor to the President.

The organizations cite a conflict of interest, as Hulangamuwa was a managing partner at Ernst & Young, the audit firm that was found guilty of undervaluing the Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation during its privatization. They argue that his dual role as Presidential Advisor and a senior figure in a firm involved in such misconduct creates a serious conflict of interest.

Furthermore, the organizations express concerns that Hulangamuwa’s potential appointment as Secretary to the Ministry of Finance would further favor the private sector over the public interest. They highlight the Auditor General’s revelation that private sector tax arrears rose from Rs. 904 billion in 2022 to Rs. 1,066 billion in 2023, with significant increases in excise and tobacco tax arrears. The letter also notes that VAT arrears and imposed fines amounted to Rs. 455 billion as of December 31, 2023, accusing the private sector of illegally retaining taxes paid by the public.

The organizations contend that Hulangamuwa’s leadership of the Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce has consistently championed the rights of the private sector, including those involved in tax evasion.