Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe Arrested on Charges of Misusing Government Funds

International International News

Posted by AI on 2025-08-22 09:59:14 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-22 12:25:45

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Former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe was arrested on Friday, June 09, 2023, by the country's Criminal Investigation Department on charges of misusing government funds, escalating political tensions in the country. The arrest comes at a time when Sri Lanka is facing severe economic turmoil, with protesters demanding the resignation of the current president and ruling party.

Former President Wickremesinghe, who served as President from 1993 to 2001 and again from 2015 to 2019, is accused of having allegedly misappropriated state assets during his tenures. This development has shocked many, given the former president's reputation as a seasoned politician and his role in leading the country in the past.

The arrest was conducted in accordance with the directive of the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mirihana, who ordered the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to arrest and produce Wickremesinghe in court promptly. In a statement, the IGP said that the arrest was made following extensive investigations into the allegations of financial misconduct against the former president.

Wickremesinghe is the founder of the main opposition party, the United National Party (UNP), and has been a prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics for decades. Despite the current political tensions and the severity of the charges against him, Wickremesinghe has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has stated that he will vigorously contest them in court.

The latest development underscores the growing political crisis in Sri Lanka and the ongoing struggle to hold those in power accountable for their actions. Many are hoping that this arrest will lead to further investigations and improvements in the country's governance and transparency.

Regardless of the implications, the arrest of Wickremesinghe is a significant development in the country's history and one that will undoubtedly shape the future of Sri Lankan politics.

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