Former North Central Province Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith and his sister-in-law, Shanthini Chandrasena, who are serving 16-year rigorous prison sentences for corruption, have filed a petition at the Colombo High Court requesting release on bail pending appeal.
The case was taken up before Colombo High Court Judge Sahan Mapa Bandara. President’s Counsel Ali Sabry, appearing for the petitioners, argued that since an appeal has already been filed, they can be granted bail until a final decision is delivered.
The judge scheduled the next hearing for August 25 to verify the claims.
S.M. Ranjith is the brother of former Minister S.M. Chandrasena, while Shanthini Chandrasena is Chandrasena’s wife.
She served as the private secretary to Chief Minister Ranjith during his tenure from 2012 to 2014.
The Bribery Commission filed a case against Shanthini Chandrasena for allegedly obtaining fuel worth Rs. 2,680,528 and Rs. 5,379,623 through vouchers during this period.
Both she and Ranjith have also been charged with influencing provincial councillors to release two additional vehicles, in addition to the Chief Minister’s two official cars and security vehicle. (Newswire)