Ex Minister Mahindananda sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment

The court found both individuals guilty of causing a loss of Rs. 53 million to the state by orchestrating the controversial purchase of 14,000 carrom boards and 11,000 dam boards, which were then distributed to various sports associations across the country during the 2015 presidential election period. The procurement and distribution were facilitated through the Sri Lanka Sports Federation.

Delivering the verdict, the High Court sentenced Nalin Fernando to 25 years of rigorous imprisonment, citing his central role in authorizing and executing the fraudulent transactions. Former Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage was sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for his involvement and abuse of public office.

The court emphasized that the accused had manipulated their positions of power for political and personal gain, misappropriating government resources under the guise of promoting sports development.

The conviction marks a significant ruling in Sri Lanka's ongoing efforts to clamp down on political corruption and misuse of state funds. Legal experts and civil society groups have welcomed the decision as a step toward greater accountability in governance.