COLOMBO, October 6, 2024 — Former Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa has stated that his family and their political party, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), are prepared to give their full support to recover the wealth allegedly stolen by the Rajapaksa family and hidden abroad. Addressing a party meeting, Rajapaksa emphasized that bringing back this wealth could solve Sri Lanka’s ongoing debt crisis without the need for external financial assistance from organizations like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) or the World Bank.
“If the money stolen by the Rajapaksas is in Uganda, we will give our utmost support to bring that money back,” Rajapaksa said, referencing widespread allegations of hidden assets in various offshore locations, including the Seychelles. He further called on anyone with connections in Uganda to assist in the process, emphasizing the need for swift action.
Rajapaksa claimed that the alleged stolen assets could amount to as much as $18 billion, a sum that, if returned, could vastly exceed the funds provided by the IMF. “If they are brought back, paying this debt is not a problem. They say there are 18 billion dollars. Then the IMF is not needed. The World Bank is not needed,” he said.
These remarks have sparked widespread debate, given the longstanding accusations of corruption and asset misappropriation against the Rajapaksa family. Critics have called for thorough investigations and transparency, while supporters argue that the family’s pledge to assist in repatriating the wealth should be welcomed as part of the solution to the country’s economic woes.
Rajapaksa concluded his address by urging those with information or influence to help facilitate the recovery process, saying, “My family and our party are giving maximum support, please bring this money to Sri Lanka as soon as possible.”
Despite these claims, the exact whereabouts and existence of the alleged hidden wealth remain unproven, with ongoing investigations continuing to stir public interest and political controversy.
