August 24, Colombo (LNW): Health and Mass Media Minister and Cabinet Spokesman Dr Nalinda Jayatissa has reiterated that the government has not interfered in any ongoing legal proceedings, emphasising that all investigative and judicial institutions are operating independently and without political pressure.
Responding to media questions yesterday (23) regarding recent remarks made by a YouTuber — who had notably predicted the arrest of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe — Minister Jayatissa dismissed the notion that such commentary pointed to political orchestration behind the legal action.
“The government’s sole responsibility is to ensure that the relevant institutions are provided with the necessary facilities and resources,” Jayatissa said. “Whether it’s in connection with financial misconduct, criminal activity, or corruption, investigations are progressing freely and independently. This particular case also stands as further evidence that the law is applied equally to all, irrespective of their position or power.”
He went on to clarify that public speculation, even if occasionally accurate, does not indicate any form of manipulation or external influence on legal processes. Drawing a comparison, the Minister referred to past instances where journalists and commentators had made similar predictions about judicial decisions.
“Take journalist Victor Ivan, for example. He once made remarks in advance regarding a court verdict. People speculate all the time — some think bail will be granted, others think it won’t. These are merely guesses. Sometimes they turn out to be right, other times not,” he explained.
However, Minister Jayatissa issued a caution regarding attempts to undermine the integrity of the judiciary through such speculation. “If anyone attempts to suggest that outcomes are being dictated or predicted due to undue influence, that borders on contempt of court. The public must understand the seriousness of making such claims.”
