Former Governor Rajith Keerthi Tennakoon has filed a defamation lawsuit against Minister Samantha Vidyarathna, demanding Rs. 100 million in damages for allegedly making false, defamatory, and misleading statements. The accusations stem from a press conference held on January 9, 2024, at the Ministry of Plantation Industries, where Vidyarathna publicly accused Tennakoon of corruption and illegal activities.
The legal complaint, filed by Attorney-at-Law H.D.C.D. Hathurusingha, claims that Vidyarathna’s remarks were baseless and aimed at tarnishing Tennakoon’s reputation and credibility. During the press conference, Vidyarathna accused Tennakoon of involvement in activities such as fraudulent identification, occupying reserved forests, unauthorized construction, illegal deforestation, land seizures, and selling government assets for personal gain.
The lawsuit asserts that these allegations are entirely false and were made with the intent to humiliate and destroy Tennakoon’s public image. As a former public official and influential opinion leader in Sri Lanka, Tennakoon claims he has suffered significant harm to his reputation, character, and honour due to Vidyarathna’s statements.
According to the legal notice, Tennakoon’s previously unblemished reputation has been severely damaged, with the defamatory remarks creating a negative perception of him in the public eye. The notice demands that Vidyarathna pay Rs. 100 million in compensation within 14 days. Failure to comply will result in legal action to recover the full amount, along with interest and additional legal costs.
The complaint also emphasizes that the defamatory remarks have amplified public scrutiny and ridicule, further damaging Tennakoon’s standing in society. The statements, described as both untrue and defamatory, have been labeled an irresponsible use of a public platform to spread false allegations.
This high-profile case highlights growing tensions between political figures in Sri Lanka and raises important questions about accountability, freedom of speech, and defamation laws. Tennakoon’s legal action underscores the seriousness of the damage caused by false public accusations and his determination to hold Vidyarathna accountable.
Minister Vidyarathna has yet to respond to the allegations or the legal proceedings. The case is likely to draw widespread public attention as it unfolds, given its potential implications for political and legal dynamics in Sri Lanka.
