Ranil Wickremesinghe released on bail

Magistrate Nilupuli Lankapura granted bail on three sureties of Rs. 5 million each. The case relates to a private overseas tour allegedly undertaken by a group of ten individuals using public funds during Wickremesinghe’s tenure.

Wickremesinghe appeared in court today amid tight security and considerable public attention. Prosecutors from the Attorney General’s Department had earlier urged the court to deny bail, citing concerns over judicial interference, leaked court material, and public commentary suggesting political influence.

The defense, led by senior counsel, argued that the former President poses no flight risk and requested bail on medical and legal grounds.