President Faure presented the new Auditor General, Mr Gamini Herath, with his Instrument of Appointment in a ceremony held at State House this afternoon.

Also present to witness the ceremony was the Vice-President, Mr Vincent Meriton, Secretary of State for Cabinet Affairs, Mr Mohammed Afif, Secretary of State for Presidential Affairs, Mrs Aude Labaleine, and Mr Herath's wife.

Speaking to the national media after the ceremony, Mr Herath said that he is ready to tackle the new responsibility at hand in view of his experiences. He also said he would bring any matters of significance before the legislature.

"The laws that concern the Auditor General's office and the provisions in the constitution are clear, whereby the Auditor General is independent and discreet. The mandate is explicit, and it is a figure that is accountable to the National Assembly. I will also be assessing the manpower in the Auditor General's office and provide recommendations where necessary," said Mr Herath.