- Note that the above image is created by AI
A political storm erupted in Colombo today as former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department over alleged misuse of state funds, was brought before the Fort Magistrate’s Court under heavy security. A large gathering of politicians, former MPs, and loyal supporters packed the court premises, while the UNP rushed to defend him with evidence claiming no wrongdoing.
Security was visibly tightened around the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court as Ranil Wickremesinghe was produced before the Magistrate following his arrest earlier in the day. Court correspondents confirmed that several former parliamentarians and senior political figures had gathered at the location, alongside crowds of supporters who had come in solidarity with the former President.
The Criminal Investigation Department arrested Wickremesinghe this afternoon (22), shortly after he spent more than four hours giving a statement regarding allegations linked to his foreign travel during his presidency. The investigation centers on his use of government funds to travel to London to attend the graduation ceremony of his wife, Professor Maithri Wickremesinghe, at the University of Wolverhampton.
CID officers earlier presented evidence on June 24 to the Fort Magistrate’s Court, prompting the expansion of the inquiry. Statements were subsequently recorded from Sandra Perera, the former private secretary to Wickremesinghe, as well as from former Presidential Secretary Saman Ekanayake.
Amidst growing political tensions, the United National Party Media Unit released what it described as critical evidence in defense of Wickremesinghe. The party published the official invitation letter extended by the University of Wolverhampton to the former President and his wife. According to the UNP, this letter proves that Wickremesinghe did not misuse state funds for personal gain.
The case has triggered heated debate across political lines. While opponents press for accountability under the Public Property Act, UNP leaders insist the arrest is politically motivated and undermines due process. As the legal battle unfolds, the presence of politicians and supporters at court underscores the explosive political weight of the case.
