COLOMBO, June 7 (ePRESS) – Sri Lankan boxing has been plunged into fresh controversy after former Sri Lanka Boxing Association (SLBA) President Dian Gomes called for an urgent investigation into the sport’s governing body, raising serious questions over financial accountability, governance practices and the legality of its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The allegations, outlined in two formal letters sent to the Auditor General and the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, have brought the spotlight onto the administration of the SLBA at a time when boxing worldwide is undergoing major changes ahead of future Olympic competitions.
At the centre of the dispute is the AGM and election of office-bearers held on May 29 at the Ministry of Sports. Gomes claims the meeting was conducted without the presentation of audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, a requirement under Sri Lanka’s Sports Act No. 25 of 1973.
According to Gomes, the association failed to submit its accounts to the Auditor General’s Department before the legal deadline of February 28, 2026. As a result, the audit process was not completed in time for the AGM, meaning members were unable to review certified financial statements before voting.
For sports administrators and governance experts, audited accounts are one of the most important tools for ensuring transparency. Without them, members cannot independently verify how funds were received, spent or managed during the year.
The biggest concern raised in Gomes’ complaint relates to a figure appearing in the draft accounts presented at the AGM.
According to the documents, the SLBA recorded Rs. 137.3 million as accommodation fees received from the Asian Boxing Association.
However, Gomes, who serves as a Director of the International Boxing Association (IBA) and states that he has knowledge of Asian Boxing Association matters, claims the Asian body had granted only USD 100,000 to Sri Lanka Boxing.
This has prompted him to request an independent audit to determine whether the reported amount was actually received, whether all legal procedures governing foreign funds were followed, and whether adequate supporting documentation exists.
The issue becomes even more significant when viewed alongside another figure in the same accounts.
The draft statements reportedly show Rs. 144.7 million listed as Asian Boxing Association expenses.
Gomes has asked auditors to examine how these funds were spent and whether the expenditure can be fully supported by documentary evidence.
The difference between income received and expenditure reported raises questions that only a comprehensive audit can answer.
Financial transparency has become a growing issue in sports governance worldwide. International federations, Olympic bodies and government regulators increasingly demand detailed reporting standards to protect athletes, sponsors and public confidence.
Beyond finances, Gomes has also questioned the legitimacy of the election itself.
He argues that conducting an AGM without audited accounts undermines the principles of accountability required under Sri Lankan sports law. He claims he requested a postponement of the meeting but alleges that the request was ignored and the election proceeded regardless.
Another concern highlighted in the complaint relates to athlete selection.
According to Gomes, certain selection trials were conducted by referees and judges who allegedly did not possess the necessary accreditation. If proven, such shortcomings could cast doubt over the fairness of athlete selections for international tournaments.
The governance dispute also extends to Sri Lanka’s position in world boxing.
The International Olympic Committee currently recognizes World Boxing as the pathway for Olympic boxing, while the long-standing International Boxing Association has faced challenges regarding Olympic recognition.
Gomes alleges that the SLBA has not complied with a directive from the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka to seek membership in World Boxing and withdraw from the IBA structure.
This issue carries significant importance because the future participation of Sri Lankan boxers in Olympic qualification pathways could depend on the country’s alignment with internationally recognized governing bodies.
The former boxing chief has further alleged that athletes were sent on overseas tours without obtaining all necessary approvals, another matter he believes warrants investigation by sports authorities.
The controversy comes at a crucial time for Sri Lankan boxing.
The sport has produced several international medalists over the years and remains one of the country’s most successful combat sports. However, administrative disputes have often overshadowed performances inside the ring.
Governance experts note that strong administration is as important as athlete development. Transparent finances, legally conducted elections and internationally recognized affiliations are essential for attracting sponsorships, securing government support and protecting athletes’ interests.
At present, the allegations remain claims made by Gomes and have not yet been independently verified by the Auditor General’s Department, the Ministry of Sports or the Sri Lanka Boxing Association.
The next steps are likely to depend on whether the Auditor General launches a detailed examination of the accounts and whether the Ministry of Sports decides to investigate the complaints regarding the AGM, elections and governance issues.
Until then, Sri Lankan boxing faces a period of uncertainty as questions over transparency, accountability and the future direction of the sport continue to dominate discussions outside the ring.
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