Olympic Committee Under Fire Amid Governance Concerns, Says Dayasiri Jayasekara

Dayasiri Jayasekara, a Member of Parliament representing the Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB), has raised serious concerns in Parliament over the governance and transparency of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka.

Speaking during a recent parliamentary session, Jayasekara alleged that the NOCSL has failed to conduct its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2025 and has not approved its budget for the current year. Despite these lapses, he claimed the committee is preparing to proceed with elections for office bearers for the 2025–2029 term on April 25.

The MP further highlighted that the committee has not submitted its audited financial report for 2024, noting that all affiliated sports bodies are required to do so by February 28 each year. He questioned the accountability of the NOCSL, emphasizing that as the governing body for Olympic sports in Sri Lanka, it carries a significant responsibility.

Jayasekara also alleged that a budget for 2026 had been introduced without proper approval through an AGM and is now being presented for ratification under questionable circumstances. He called on the Sports Ministry to clarify what actions would be taken regarding these irregularities.

Referring to Sunil Kumara Gamage, the current Minister of Sports, Jayasekara stated that a formal complaint had been submitted as far back as April 2025 outlining concerns about the conduct of the NOCSL leadership. However, he claimed that no meaningful action has been taken to investigate these issues.

Among the more serious allegations, Jayasekara claimed that funds linked to a personal gift given to Husain Al-Musallam, Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), were improperly reclaimed by the NOCSL. He stated that he possesses audio evidence to support this claim and intends to present it in Parliament.

The MP also criticized the composition of an Ethics Committee appointed by the NOCSL’s Executive Board, alleging it was formed to serve internal interests and to block credible candidates from contesting the upcoming election. He argued that individuals with clean records are being sidelined based on questionable grounds.

Describing the situation as deeply troubling, Jayasekara alleged that over Rs. 80 million had been withdrawn from a fixed deposit of Rs. 100 million without proper approval from the Executive Board or General Assembly.

He further claimed that multiple allegations have been directed at the current NOCSL President, Suresh Subramaniam, and members of the Executive Board, but expressed disappointment that neither the government nor relevant authorities have initiated investigations.

Jayasekara concluded by alleging that efforts are being made to undermine potential candidates, including Jaswar Umar, President of the Football Federation, in order to influence the outcome of the upcoming election.

The allegations have sparked renewed debate over governance and accountability within Sri Lanka’s top sports administration body, with calls mounting for greater transparency and oversight.