August 26, Colombo (LNW): In latest developments during today’s (26) hearing at the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court, counsel representing former President Ranil Wickremesinghe presented detailed medical evidence in support of a bail application, citing a serious and worsening health condition.
President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne informed the court that the former head of state is in a precarious medical situation, revealing that three of the four major arteries in his heart are blocked. A formal medical report was submitted to support the claim.
Further elaborating, Premaratne PC noted that Wickremesinghe has also been suffering from a chronic kidney condition, which has reportedly deteriorated. Additional medical findings presented in court indicated signs of heart muscle damage and a developing lung infection—factors that, according to the defence, place his life at significant risk if he remains in remand custody.
The court is currently considering these submissions alongside strong objections raised by the Attorney General’s Department. Representing the Criminal Investigation Department, Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris argued against the granting of bail, stating that the former president’s controversial visit to the United Kingdom—central to the ongoing investigation—did not involve any official meetings with foreign heads of state, undermining its claim as a state-sanctioned engagement.
Wickremesinghe remains under judicial custody, charged under the Public Property Act over alleged misuse of government funds during the 2023 trip. The case continues to attract significant public interest, with a growing number of supporters gathering outside the courthouse in a visible show of solidarity.
Related Stories:
