By: Isuru Parakrama
August 25, Colombo (LNW): Prominent global environmentalist and diplomat Eric Solheim has issued a strong call for the immediate release of Sri Lanka’s former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, expressing serious concern over his health during detention.
In a statement shared online, Solheim aligned himself with a growing number of leaders from Sri Lanka, South Asia, and the international community who are demanding Wickremesinghe’s release. He praised the former president for his leadership during Sri Lanka’s severe economic and political crisis in 2022, describing him as the figure who “stood up to save Sri Lanka when the nation reached rock bottom.”
Solheim also criticised the basis of the charges against Wickremesinghe, stating, “The accusations are without merit. Even if they were true, they would not constitute any criminal or even unacceptable behaviour in Europe.”
Whilst affirming his support for Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption efforts, Solheim urged authorities to direct their focus toward substantive issues. “Please focus on real issues,” he stated, highlighting what he views as a misdirection of justice.
Full Statement:
