A major bribery investigation has been launched into claims that former Minister Basil Rajapaksa misused over Rs. 1.03 billion in public funds during his time in office.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption has officially opened an inquiry into a complaint alleging that Basil Rajapaksa, between 2010 and 2015, used state resources for his personal and political benefit, causing over a billion rupees in financial losses to the government.
The complaint was filed by Kamantha Thushara, Chairman of the Citizens’ Power Against Bribery, Corruption and Waste. He stated that the final report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry appointed by former President Maithripala Sirisena had already exposed large-scale misuse of state property and public funds by the former minister.
According to the complaint, from June 2, 2010 to November 7, 2014, Basil Rajapaksa allegedly used Sri Lanka Air Force aircraft for his personal domestic travel under the Maga Neguma project, resulting in a cost of Rs. 155,451,612 to the state.
The complaint further alleges that he used 14 vehicles belonging to the Presidential Secretariat, including three luxury vehicles assigned for security and 11 other vehicles, costing the government an estimated Rs. 612,000,000. These vehicles were reportedly used without following any formal approval or repayment procedure.
It is also alleged that between January 10, 2010 and January 10, 2015, a total of 64 Navy personnel and 84 Army personnel were deployed for Basil Rajapaksa’s personal security, resulting in an additional Rs. 264,370,800 being paid from public funds for their salaries and allowances.
Kamantha Thushara said the information was already documented in the Presidential Commission of Inquiry report and insisted that legal action must be taken not only against Basil Rajapaksa, but also against all state officials who assisted in the alleged misuse of government resources.
He stated that the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption has officially informed him in writing that a full investigation has begun. Thushara visited the Bribery Commission yesterday (4) to give a statement and submit supporting documents.
He said, “The people of this country continue to suffer while politicians live off public money. This investigation must not be allowed to fade away. Those responsible must be held accountable.”
The case now moves into the formal investigative stage, with the Commission expected to call multiple witnesses and gather additional evidence on the alleged financial misconduct.
