Ranil Wickremesinghe detention marks a historic moment in Sri Lanka’s political landscape. Image: Eranga Jayawardena/The Associated Press via Al Jazeera.
(The Post News) – Ranil Wickremesinghe’s detention has drawn wide attention in Sri Lanka as authorities investigate claims about the misuse of state funds during his presidency.
The 76-year-old faces three charges related to trips he made abroad while in office. One allegation concerns a 2023 stopover in the United Kingdom after attending a G77 summit in Cuba. During that trip, he and his wife joined a ceremony at the University of Wolverhampton. Authorities claim public money covered what they consider a private visit, though Wickremesinghe strongly denies the accusation.
The case has also attracted international interest. Observers note how rare it is for a former Sri Lankan leader to face criminal proceedings. Domestically, opinions remain divided, with some calling for accountability while others view the case as politically motivated.
Court Proceedings and Political Career
On Friday, Wickremesinghe appeared before magistrates in Colombo after providing a statement to the Criminal Investigations Department. The court denied his request for bail on health grounds and remanded him in custody. He is the first former president in Sri Lanka to face such detention.
Wickremesinghe has played a central role in the country’s politics since entering parliament in 1977. A trained lawyer from a prominent political family, he served six terms as prime minister. He became president in 2022 during a severe economic crisis, following Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s departure. Many credited him with helping stabilize the nation, though he lost the 2024 election to Anura Kumara Dissanayake, concluding a brief presidency.
Ongoing Case and Public Reaction
As the Ranil Wickremesinghe detention continues, debate grows over his political legacy. Supporters highlight his contributions to Sri Lanka’s recovery, while critics question his use of public funds. Citizens are closely following the proceedings, which may set a precedent for holding political leaders accountable.
The outcome will likely influence how Wickremesinghe’s tenure and overall contributions are remembered in the years ahead.
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