Founder of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Basil Rajapaksa, is scheduled to appear before the Matara Magistrate’s Court on Friday, November 21, over allegations of illegally acquiring land using Rs. 50 million in unlawfully obtained funds. It remains unclear whether the former minister will return to Sri Lanka for the hearing.
Rajapaksa’s lawyers previously informed the court that he is receiving treatment in the United States for spinal and nerve complications following a fall, with an American doctor advising against air travel for six months. His absence at previous hearings had led prosecutors to request cancellation of bail and issuance of a warrant, but the court rejected the request, citing his prior compliance, and ordered him to appear on the next date.
The upcoming hearing coincides with a major political event: the Joint Opposition rally on November 21, led by the SLPP, the party founded by Rajapaksa, fueling speculation over his potential return.
