Defense seeks bail for Wickremesinghe citing health issues

Making oral submissions before the Magistrate’s Court, Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peeris, appearing for the Attorney General, emphasized that bail should not be granted lightly, given the seriousness of the charges and the public sensitivity surrounding the case.

ASG Peeris also raised serious concerns regarding recent conduct in and around the court proceedings. He informed the court that during last Friday’s hearing, a video recording of the court order had been made and widely shared on social media platforms. In addition, photographs of the former President inside the courtroom dock were taken and circulated online—an act that breaches courtroom protocol and potentially undermines the dignity of the judicial process.

Highlighting further irregularities, the ASG told the court that an organized group had spoken to media outside the court immediately after the order was delivered, alleging that the ruling had been handed down from “Pelawatte”—a phrase interpreted as an accusation of political interference. “Such statements are an affront to the independence of the judiciary and amount to contempt of court,” he said.

Peeris also revealed that a YouTuber had publicly announced that Wickremesinghe would be remanded—even before proceedings had begun. He described this as a deeply concerning development, adding that an investigation is currently underway to determine how such claims were made in advance.

“No one can be allowed to insult or bring disrepute to court,” ASG Peeris told the court firmly. “Comments were even made suggesting that we are ‘Anura’s contractors’ or hoping to become the next Attorney General. These kinds of remarks are completely unacceptable and disrespectful.”

He further clarified that despite widespread reports, the suspect had not spent even a single hour in remand custody, and stressed that any decision regarding his detention lies entirely with the Magistrate. He also called for a proper medical board to examine the suspect, in light of claims regarding his health.

Appearing for Wickremesinghe, President’s Counsel Thilak Marapana, assisted by Anuja Premaratne PC, made submissions seeking bail for the former President. The defense cited the factual background of the case and Wickremesinghe’s medical condition as grounds for consideration.