Ex minister Chandrani Bandara indicted for corruption and abuse of power

The indictment, filed under 11 separate charges, accuses Bandara of violating the Bribery Act during her ministerial tenure between January 14 and January 31, 2019. Chief among the allegations is the unlawful appointment of H.M. Chandrawansa as the Project Director of the Ministry of Dry Zone Development without adhering to established legal and administrative procedures.

CIABOC further alleges that Bandara used her influence to secure appointments for several personal associates to various positions within the ministry, bypassing official recruitment protocols and violating ethical standards of public office.

The case highlights growing concerns over political accountability and the enforcement of anti-corruption laws in Sri Lanka. A trial date is expected to be set in the coming weeks, as the Colombo High Court prepares to hear evidence on the alleged misconduct.

CIABOC has reiterated its commitment to pursuing all cases of corruption, regardless of rank or political affiliation, in a continued effort to uphold public trust in state institutions.