In an unprecedented move, Sri Lanka’s Colombo Fort Magistrate Court on Friday denied bail to former president Ranil Wickremesinghe and ordered him remanded till August 26. The 76-year-old political veteran, who once held the nation’s highest office, now faces allegations of misusing government funds for personal travel.
The Arrest That Shook Colombo
Wickremesinghe, a six-time prime minister and president from 2022 to 2024, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Thursday evening. Investigators allege that he diverted state money to pay for a private trip to London, where he accompanied his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, to her graduation ceremony.
The courtroom drama unfolded with heavy police presence outside, as curious onlookers and loyal supporters gathered to witness history being made. A previous head of state from Sri Lanka was thrown in remand detention and denied bail for the first time ever.
Plea for Bail on Humanitarian Grounds
President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne argued fiercely for bail, citing Wickremesinghe’s fragile health. The veteran leader is reportedly suffering from long-standing heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes. Premaratne also revealed an emotional detail for the first time: Wickremesinghe’s wife is battling cancer, and the couple have no children to rely on for care.
“Prison is not a safe place for a former president. I therefore respectfully request Your Honour to release my client on suitable bail conditions,” Premaratne pleaded.
However, Magistrate Nilupuli Lankapura dismissed the request, directing that Wickremesinghe be kept in custody until the next hearing.
Political Heavyweights Rally Behind Him
The court’s decision sparked visible anger outside the courtroom. As the former president was led away under strict security, large crowds of Wickremesinghe supporters yelled against the decision.
Prominent leaders turned up in solidarity, including Namal Rajapaksa, former president Maithripala Sirisena, and ex-prime minister Dinesh Gunawardena. Many referred to the case as a “political witch-hunt,” indicating its strong political overtones.
Sri Lankan Muslim Congress leader Rauff Hakeem sharply criticized the move, saying Wickremesinghe had been treated “like a common criminal,” a remark that resonated widely among the public.
Also Read: Sri Lanka’s Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe Arrested
Regional Voices Join the Chorus
The case has also drawn international attention. Former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed expressed solidarity, saying he looked forward to Wickremesinghe’s “return home shortly.”
Political analysts believe Wickremesinghe’s detention could open a new chapter in Sri Lanka’s tumultuous democratic journey, exposing cracks in the island’s political establishment.
The case is set for review on August 26, when the court will decide whether Wickremesinghe remains in custody or is granted bail. Until then, Sri Lanka remains gripped by the spectacle of a fallen president behind bars — a development few thought possible in the country’s history.
