Opposition MP Dilith Jayaweera says the death of former SriLankan Airlines Chief Executive Officer Kapila Chandrasena, who was facing legal proceedings linked to the Airbus deal, reflects the “dark side” of businesses that linked to Politics in Sri Lanka.
Speaking during a media briefing, Jayaweera said he had known Chandrasena since his time at Sri Lanka Telecom and described him as a capable corporate figure who later rose to head both Sri Lanka Telecom and SriLankan Airlines.
However, he claimed Chandrasena appeared to have become entangled in what he described as the “dark side” of the country’s political-business culture.
Jayaweera said allegations that Chandrasena had obtained bail using two fake guarantors had subjected him intense pressure, adding that the incident carried a lesson for those dealing with corrupt political systems.
“Ultimately, when individuals become isolated, none of those who benefited from them remain by their side, he couldnt find anyone to get bail” he said.
The MP also raised concerns over the use of remand custody, claiming it was increasingly being used as a form of punishment before guilt is established in court.
He said the principle that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty had been seriously weakened in Sri Lanka’s current system.
Jayaweera further called for a proper investigation into Chandrasena’s death, saying that while it appeared to be a suicide at first glance, questions and suspicions had emerged regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.
He compared the situation to the recent death of External Resources Department Director Ranga Rajapaksa, whose death has also sparked public debate and speculation. (Newswire)
