COLOMBO, May 29 (ePRESS) – Former Sri Lanka Boxing President and International Boxing Association Director Dian Gomes has raised serious concerns over the governance of Sri Lanka Boxing after walking out of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Sports Ministry on Friday, claiming the meeting was conducted in violation of the country’s Sports Law.
Gomes formally requested the postponement of the AGM held on May 29, arguing that the association had failed to produce audited financial statements certified by the Auditor General’s Department, a mandatory requirement under Sports Law Act No. 25 of 1973.
Despite the objections, Sri Lanka Boxing President Anuruddha Bandara proceeded with the meeting, according to Gomes.
In a statement issued after leaving the AGM, Gomes said all national sports federations are legally required to submit their annual financial accounts to the Auditor General before February 28 of the following year. He noted that Sri Lanka Boxing’s accounts for the year ending December 31, 2025, were submitted several months late, preventing the completion of the audit process before the AGM.
Gomes further claimed that office-bearers of sports federations had previously faced severe penalties, including lifetime bans from sports administration, for similar violations. He questioned why the same standards had not been applied in this case.
The former boxing chief also highlighted concerns regarding financial transparency. He said draft accounts circulated to members showed that Sri Lanka Boxing had received Rs. 137.3 million from the Asian Boxing Federation to conduct the Asian Under-22 Championship in Sri Lanka.
According to Gomes, members were not provided with detailed explanations on how the funds were received or spent. He pointed out that the accounts listed local meet expenses of more than Rs. 150.7 million without detailed breakdowns.
He also questioned a further Rs. 8.6 million recorded under sponsorships and donations, claiming that explanatory notes were not included in the draft financial statements.
Apart from financial matters, Gomes said Sri Lanka Boxing has faced growing criticism over selection trials for major international events. He alleged that some referees and judges involved in the trials did not possess the required international accreditation, leading to complaints about fairness and transparency.
The boxing administrator also said the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka had requested Sri Lanka Boxing to obtain membership with World Boxing, which is recognised by the International Olympic Committee, to ensure Sri Lankan athletes remain eligible for major competitions such as the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.
Gomes urged Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage and the relevant authorities to examine the issues raised and take corrective action to safeguard the future of boxing in Sri Lanka.
He warned that governance shortcomings and concerns over transparency could damage the reputation and progress of one of the country’s most historic sports if left unresolved.
