In a stunning revelation that underscores deep-rooted corruption within Sri Lanka’s prison system, Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara has admitted that presidential pardons were historically granted in exchange for money, fueling public outrage and demands for accountability.
The Minister’s remarks came during a tense but peaceful silent protest staged on June 9 outside the Ministry of Justice by members of the Prisoners’ Protection Organization. The protest was organized in response to the recent illegal release of an inmate from Anuradhapura Prison during this year’s Vesak Poya presidential amnesty, an incident that has triggered a major investigation and the suspension of the Commissioner of Prisons.
Ten representatives from the Prisoners’ Protection Organization were allowed to meet with Minister Nanayakkara inside the Ministry auditorium following their demonstration. In a candid discussion, the group leveled serious accusations against senior prison officials, claiming that a culture of corruption and favoritism continues to plague the Department of Prisons.
According to the protesters, prison authorities routinely bypass legal protocols and manipulate the presidential pardon process to release well-connected or wealthy inmates, while genuinely deserving prisoners are overlooked. They alleged that high-ranking prison officials act as though the department is their private domain, openly engaging in bribery and favoritism.
Responding to these concerns, Minister Nanayakkara acknowledged the gravity of the issue. “A serious irregularity has taken place regarding the recent Vesak Poya pardon,” he said. “A prisoner who was not on the list approved by the Presidential Secretariat was released by certain prison officials. This was not a clerical mistake it was a deliberate act, and the government does not condone such behavior.”
The Minister confirmed that the matter is being thoroughly investigated and that disciplinary action is already underway, including the Cabinet’s decision to suspend the Commissioner of Prisons until inquiries are concluded. Nanayakkara emphasized that the administration is committed to rooting out corruption, even if it involves senior figures within the justice system.
The protest also served to amplify a broader demand for transparency in the presidential pardon process, a practice which has long been shrouded in secrecy and, according to the Minister’s own admission, tainted by past incidents of financial misconduct.
The Chairman of the Prisoners’ Protection Organization, Attorney-at-Law Senaka Perera, joined the delegation in calling for sweeping reforms. He urged the Ministry of Justice to implement a transparent and merit-based system for evaluating pardon applications, and to hold accountable those who have weaponized the process for personal or political gain.
The Ministry has yet to release the full list of names granted clemency this Vesak Poya, further intensifying public suspicion.
With public trust in Sri Lanka’s correctional and justice systems hanging in the balance, this scandal marks a crucial moment. As investigations proceed and accountability is demanded from the top down, many now wonder how many other inmates have walked free not by justice but by currency.
