Minister Nalinda Jayatissa defends the use of an official vehicle by the President’s Secretary’s wife, following a controversial road accident. He cites a circular permitting personal use of official cars and insists legal steps have been taken, including police action and compensation for victims.
Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Nalinda Jayatissa addressed recent controversy surrounding a road accident involving the President’s Secretary’s wife, who was traveling in an official government vehicle at the time of the incident.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the Government Information Department, Minister Jayatissa clarified that the use of the vehicle was in line with an existing circular permitting certain categories of government officials to use their allocated official vehicles for personal purposes.
According to the Minister, legal proceedings have been initiated following the accident, which took place in the Thalangama area. The driver of the vehicle was presented before the Kaduwela Magistrate’s Court and was released on personal bail amounting to five hundred thousand rupees.
“The law has been applied. There is a circular that allows personal use of official vehicles under specific circumstances. This was followed in this case,” the Minister emphasized.
In response to public concern about accountability and possible misuse of state resources, the Minister stated that the relevant authorities, including the police and judiciary, have taken necessary steps. He also mentioned that arrangements are being made to provide compensation to those affected by the accident.
While the incident has stirred debate, particularly on social media platforms questioning the ethics of high-ranking officials’ family members using official assets, Jayatissa maintained that the situation has been legally handled in accordance with the established administrative guidelines.
The accident, though legally addressed, has reignited discussions about privilege, transparency, and the blurred lines between official capacity and personal benefit in Sri Lanka’s public service. Minister Jayatissa’s comments appear aimed at easing public concern, reinforcing that protocol was followed, and promising support for those harmed in the incident.
