Put an end to letters by politicos

It is now public knowledge that various “Catchers” or friends of ministers, deputy ministers and other politicians issue letters addressed to The Sri Lanka Customs and Inland Container Depots, requesting for waivers or reductions on Customs Duties and Demurrage incurred at depots due to late clearance.

The Sri Lanka Customs Dept. has been established for the sole purpose of checking on the goods imported and preventing contraband from entering the country and levying duty accordingly. As a result of such letters being issued for reduction on duty etc., I feel that the government is losing valuable revenue in order to satisfy the whims and fancies of Prime Ministers, Ministers, etc. Similarly, with the reduction of demurrage the owners of such yards will also be at a loss.

Therefore, I feel that the President should step in right now, and issue strict instructions that no such letters be issued even to their kith and kin. Where is governance and where are we heading?

As a result of such letters being issued for reduction on duty etc., I feel that the government is losing valuable revenue in order to satisfy the whims and fancies of Prime Ministers, Ministers, etc

Resident

Malabe