Kaduwela mayor's call for firms to keep sending December gift parcels draws questions

Remarks by Kaduwela Mayor Ranjan Jayalal encouraging private companies to continue the custom of sending December gift parcels to municipal council employees and public sector workers have raised questions.

Speaking at an event in Arangala, Malabe on Sunday (8), the mayor said some private companies had stopped sending the customary year-end gifts after the change of administration, and he urged businesses to continue the practice.

'If you are used to giving some of your products to the employees of public institutions and the municipal council in December, do give them. We also enjoy good food and drink,' he said.

The comments have drawn attention to the line between traditional seasonal gifts and benefits that could create a conflict of interest for public officials, particularly where the businesses concerned have dealings with the municipal council.

The remarks also prompted questions about whether businesses connected to public institutions offering gifts to council employees could create conflicts of interest. There was, however, no evidence in the comments that the mayor sought money or personal favours in exchange for official decisions. The statements were made at an event marking the start of work to strengthen the banks of the main canal with gabion walls.