SLPP Alleges Political Victimisation in Arrests of Party Figures

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) General Secretary and former Parliamentarian Sagara Kariyawasam has alleged that the recent arrests of senior party figures were politically motivated, claiming that the SLPP is being targeted for opposing the government.

Kariyawasam made the remarks while addressing a media briefing held today (08) at the SLPP headquarters on Nelum Mawatha, Battaramulla.

He alleged that the arrests of the party’s National Organiser and the wife of its leader were linked to the party’s opposition to the government. The allegations represent the position of the SLPP.

Kariyawasam also criticised the decision to produce Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera in court wearing prison attire instead of traditional saffron robes.

He said protecting Buddhism is a responsibility of the government under Article 9 of the Constitution and called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to intervene immediately and clarify the circumstances surrounding the decision.

Kariyawasam further alleged that authorities were applying different standards in the enforcement of the law.

He also raised concerns regarding funds collected through the ‘Siriliya Saviya’ organisation to purchase a CT scanner for the Children’s Hospital. According to Kariyawasam, the relevant bank account was frozen following the change of government in 2015.

Commenting on the arrest of Shiranthi Rajapaksa by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), Kariyawasam alleged that she was taken into custody in the early hours of the morning without prior notice, despite being willing to cooperate with the investigation.

He described the arrest as an act of political victimisation, while noting that these allegations have been presented as the position of the SLPP.