Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris accused former President Ranil Wickremesinghe of abusing the judicial process, questioning suspicious medical reports and ridiculing claims that a critically ill ICU patient could be reading books and taking selfies.
The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court yesterday heard fiery arguments as the case against Ranil Wickremesinghe, charged with misusing over Rs. 16 million in public funds during a United Kingdom visit, was taken up. Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris directly challenged the legitimacy of medical reports submitted by six doctors, which stated that Wickremesinghe had a blocked artery and was under intensive care at the Colombo National Hospital.
Peiris told the court that the reports had been filed without any formal court order, suggesting that they were presented under the influence of the accused. He further highlighted what he described as inconsistencies, noting that despite claims of a serious medical condition, Wickremesinghe had quickly recovered and left hospital under suspicious circumstances.
“Your Honor, just days ago President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne claimed that his client’s condition was so serious that he had been admitted to the ICU. But instead of being transferred to a normal ward like other patients, he was discharged the very next day, smiling and posing for selfies with doctors,” Peiris argued.
He added that Wickremesinghe’s behavior raised serious doubts. “Which ICU patient in the world reads Boris Johnson’s books while supposedly critically ill? Even during his hospital stay, he was making phone calls to various people. This is not an ordinary suspect. This is a man accused of squandering Rs. 16 million of public funds within just 36 hours.”
Peiris’ remarks directly challenged the credibility of both the defense and the medical professionals involved. He insisted that such manipulations were a direct abuse of the judicial process and warned that allowing powerful individuals to bend the system would further erode public trust in Sri Lanka’s courts.
The accusations against Ranil Wickremesinghe have already sparked public controversy, not only over the alleged misuse of millions in taxpayer money but also regarding the manner in which medical claims are being used to delay judicial proceedings. Peiris’ statements have intensified the debate, raising concerns about political influence, accountability, and the transparency of legal procedures in high-profile corruption cases.
As the case continues, the focus remains on whether the judiciary can withstand pressure and deliver justice in one of the most closely watched corruption cases involving a former head of state.
