Countries and Regions

	Table of Contents
p. 5 of 20 BACK | NEXT I. Country Performance Assessment A. Economic Performance Assessment B. Poverty Assessment C. Assessment of Socio-Environmental Performance D. Governance: Sound Development Management E. Implementation Assessment II. Country Operational Strategy III. Sector Strategies IV. Regional Cooperation V. Donor Activities and Aid Coordination VI. Cofinancing and Catalyzing External Resources VII. ADB’s Operational Program VIII. Economic and Sector Work Program IX. Local Cost Financing

Country Assistance Plans - Sri Lanka : I. Country Performance Assessment

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D. Governance: Sound Development Management

34. The structural and management weaknesses in the public administration system are beginning to reach levels where they are a constraint on development and reform is needed. There is a broad consensus on the measures required to improve public sector performance, including streamlining the central government institutions and agencies; downsizing of institutions; restoration of professionalism to the civil service; and ensuring that clear responsibilities, authority and resources are available to the provincial councils and local government authorities. Despite the weaknesses in the public administration system there remains a reasonable amount of accountability, transparency and predictability in the functioning of government. On assuming office in 1994, the current Government took a strong stance against public sector corruption, establishing a Permanent Commission for the Prevention of Bribery and Corruption and appointing a Special Presidential Commission to inquire into Malpractices and Irregularities in Public Bodies. The former had investigated about 6,000 cases for prosecution between 1995 and 1997. However, in the last two years, legal disputation and resource constraints have limited the Commission’s capacity to carry out its mandate.

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