Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa is scheduled to appear before the Bribery Commission tomorrow (12), his media spokesman, Attorney‑at‑Law Manoj Gamage, confirmed.
Speaking to reporters, he said the former President will present himself at 9.00 am.
Gamage further said that a team of lawyers is expected to meet later today to discuss certain legal matters connected to the summons.
According to Gamage, the summons was issued based on a statement given by the late former SriLankan Airlines CEO Kapila Chandrasena.
Pointing out that, however, Chandrasena had submitted an affidavit to the court claiming that his statement was obtained under threat and coercion, Gamage warned that if the summons is based on such testimony, it would be a serious matter.
He further noted that the issue has already been referred to court, and if the summons proceeds based on an unlawful statement, legal action will be taken against the relevant parties.
“Our decision at present is that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa will definitely appear. He is not someone who ever runs away from questions. But there are certain legal aspects we must consider. This will be reviewed by the team of lawyers at today’s discussion. However, our decision has not changed. Accordingly, he is scheduled to participate tomorrow. We know that clear allegations have been made against the late Kapila Chandrasena by name to the Director General. If this summons is based on such a statement, we see it entirely as an unlawful act, because Chandrasena has already submitted an affidavit to the court stating that the statement was obtained through force, coercion, and threats,” he told the media. (Newswire)