Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Rathnayake has accused those responsible for past dealings involving SriLankan Airlines’ Airbus aircraft of causing significant financial losses to the country, describing the episode as a “national crime.”
Speaking in a video, Rathnayake said corruption had allegedly taken place both during the purchase of Airbus aircraft and when the agreements were subsequently cancelled.
He referred to findings associated with proceedings before the London Commercial Court, stating that commissions and bribes had been involved in Airbus transactions concerning Indonesia and Sri Lanka.
According to the Minister, approximately US$16 million had been paid in bribes in connection with the original aircraft deal, while the cancellation of the agreement in 2016 resulted in a further payment of around US$110 million in compensation.
Rathnayake said the actions had contributed to the downfall of one of Asia’s oldest and most prestigious airlines, and stressed that those responsible should face legal action.
He said any such action must be based on facts established through international legal proceedings and should not be pursued as an act of political retaliation.
The Minister also addressed criticism from the Opposition over the Government’s ongoing reform programme, including changes involving the judiciary, education and transportation sectors.
He said the Government would not be deterred by opposition pressure and remained committed to implementing the mandate given to it by the people.
