Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa says he is ready to face independent investigations at any time, while raising concerns over what he described as political interference in ongoing investigations and the judicial process.
Rajapaksa said statements made by some government ministers in Parliament had created doubts among the public about the independence of the police and judiciary. He claimed that some ministers appeared to have reached conclusions regarding investigations, arrests and court cases before law enforcement authorities had completed their inquiries.
He alleged that evidence had been fabricated in cases involving him and said those responsible would eventually have to explain their actions.
Rajapaksa maintained that he was confident he had committed no wrongdoing and had no reason to avoid investigations. He said he had appeared before authorities whenever he had been requested to do so.
Commenting on the planned event on September 12, Rajapaksa said a large crowd would attend regardless of whether he was present, adding that the gathering was being organized in support of farmers and the country.
He also said his political future would not be decided by any political party or symbol, but by the people.
Rajapaksa further referred to recent remarks by the President concerning police officers, saying he viewed them as a message to the Inspector General of Police to ensure that officers do not succumb to political influence, power or money.
He said the judicial process must remain fair and expressed confidence that judges and members of the legal profession would continue to uphold justice.
