September 22, Colombo (LNW): Former Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa will remain in custody until September 30 following a ruling by the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court earlier today (22).
The court dismissed a request for bail, opting instead to extend his remand as investigations into corruption charges continue.
Presiding Magistrate Asanka S. Bodaragama issued the order after reviewing the details presented by legal representatives and investigators. The decision reflects the court’s view that the nature of the allegations warrants continued judicial oversight while inquiries are underway.
Rajapaksa stands accused of unlawfully securing financial compensation amounting to Rs. 8.85 million. The funds were reportedly claimed as recompense for the damage caused to a political office he had constructed on Mahaweli land — a location not legally sanctioned for such use.
The building was destroyed during the mass public protests that took place during the 2022 ‘Aragalaya’ movement, a period of widespread unrest that led to the downfall of several high-ranking political leaders.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, which initiated the arrest, alleges that Rajapaksa’s compensation claim was made in violation of the Anti-Corruption Act, categorising the act as a clear instance of misusing public resources for personal gain.
