June 12, Colombo (LNW): Commissioner Jagath Weerasinghe has reportedly been appointed as the new spokesperson for the Department of Prisons.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed the appointment amid rising scrutiny following a controversial prisoner release that has sparked widespread public concern.
The change in spokesperson comes shortly after the resignation of Commissioner Gamini B. Dissanayake, who stepped down from his media duties earlier in the day.
His departure is believed to be linked to recent revelations regarding the questionable release of an inmate from Anuradhapura Prison, allegedly under the guise of a presidential pardon issued for Vesak Poya.
In the wake of the incident, senior officials at the Ministry of Justice have begun reviewing the current structure of the Department of Prisons. Plans are now underway to implement a series of administrative reforms, including a reassignment of key supervisory positions across the country. These changes are expected to address longstanding concerns about internal accountability and systemic inefficiencies.
The leadership of the department has already undergone a shake-up, with the former Commissioner General of Prisons, Thushara Upuldeniya, being placed on suspension. In his absence, Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Justice, Nishan Dhanasinghe, has taken over in an acting capacity. Dhanasinghe, who is known for his administrative acumen, is now tasked with overseeing the reforms and restoring public trust in the system.
