Former Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe Granted Bail Over Misuse Funds Case

Former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe was granted bail by the Colombo Fort Magistrate's Court despite objections from the Additional Solicitor General, who argued that an invitation letter used to justify Wickremesinghe's UK trip lacked legal validity. Wickremesinghe is accused of misappropriating approximately Rs. 16.6 million in public funds for a private overseas visit to attend his wife's university convocation in the UK in 2023, a trip he maintains was official as the invitation was addressed to him as President. The court hearing was conducted virtually due to Wickremesinghe's critical health condition, which includes a life-threatening cardiac issue with multiple coronary artery blockages, making surgical intervention impossible. His legal counsel emphasized the severity of his medical condition, urging for bail on humanitarian grounds to allow treatment under close medical supervision. The allegations and trial continue, with government prosecutors requesting no bail until its conclusion, highlighting the ongoing dispute over the legitimacy of the trip and the use of public funds. The case has drawn significant public attention amid protests and tight security during the court proceedings.