Fighting Corruption Is Dangerous, But Not Fighting It Is Worse : Sri Lanka President

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake described corruption as a global epidemic that threatens development, democracy, and human dignity.

Addressing world leaders and delegates at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Dissanayake stated that corruption is not just a national issue but a global crisis, obstructing progress and deepening poverty across societies.

“Fighting corruption is dangerous,” he said, “but not fighting corruption is even more dangerous.”

He emphasized that the struggle against corruption is a long and difficult journey, likening it to the civilizational achievements that took generations of sacrifice and perseverance.

“The first step may be difficult,” he noted, “but if it is courageous and correct, a thousand steps will follow.”

Quoting Sri Jawaharlal Nehru, he urged delegates to “be brave, all the rest will follow,” reinforcing the need for bold leadership in the face of entrenched corruption.

Representing Sri Lanka, a nation of nearly 22 million people, President Dissanayake acknowledged the country’s modest size but affirmed its commitment to leading the fight against corruption for the sake of future generations.

He proposed that the struggle against corruption be embedded into the cultural and institutional frameworks of all UN member states, calling for a united global front to tackle the issue head-on.