WEB DESK

The removal of Director General of Customs in Sri Lanka has turned into a political controversy as customs union remain on strike for the fourth straight day.

Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera defended the new appointment saying that cabinet had the power to appoint efficient officers who could implement the state’s policies.

However, leader of opposition Mahinda Rajapaksa in a statement said that customs functioning has been crippled due to government’s shortsighted actions and the strike by employees is a direct result of the ongoing political interference.

The Customs unions launched a strike on Wednesday over the appointment of a retired navy officer as the Director General of Customs. Government changed the orders to appoint another official but unions are opposed to removal of previous DG Ms. P.S.M Charles.