The Colombo High Court yesterday (18) rejected a request made by the lawyers of the accused Patali Champika Ranawaka to adjourn the hearing of the case relating to a road accident in the Rajagiriya area in 2016.
The case has been filed against Champika Ranawaka and three others. President’s Counsel Sarath Jayamanne, appearing for Ranawaka, requested the court to adjourn the hearing since they have not received certain documents pertaining to the case as it could prejudice them.
Senior Deputy Solicitor General Dileep Peiris, who appeared for the complainant objected to the request.
However, after considering the submissions of both parties, Colombo High Court Judge Damith Thotawatte stated that the submissions made by the defendant were not a justifiable reason to adjourn the case. He further added that the expeditious conclusion of the proceedings was a matter of public concern.
Accordingly, the hearing of the case commenced, and Attorney-at-Law Sarath Jayamanne, appearing for the accused Ranawaka, cross-examined the father of the youth, Sandeep Gunawardena, who was injured in the accident.
The court ordered that the further hearing be held on March 07.
