The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has questioned remarks made by President’s Counsel Ali Sabry, who represents remanded MP Namal Rajapaksa, that those acting as oppressors today could become victims tomorrow.
According to court reports, the issue was raised during Wednesday’s (28) hearing of Rajapaksa’s bail application in connection with the Krrish transaction investigation.
Appearing for the Bribery Commission, Senior Assistant Director Thanuja Bandara questioned whether Sabry’s remarks were directed at the Commission, its investigating officers or witnesses in the case.
Bandara told the Colombo Magistrate’s Court that two witnesses had previously withheld the truth in their statements because they feared threats to their lives and those of their families.
She said the witnesses had subsequently provided further statements after Rajapaksa and fellow suspect Janaki Siriwardhana were remanded, claiming they now felt safe enough to disclose the truth.
Bandara questioned whether the witnesses were the people who might become victims in the future, as suggested in Sabry’s earlier remarks.
Responding, Sabry said his statement had been misunderstood.
“Today, the President announces the dates of court judgments. He also speaks about a list of 50 people. So, if the cap fits, wear it,” Sabry told the court.
Sabry maintained that the Bribery Commission and the judiciary were independent institutions and that everyone was equal before the law.
He cited Article 13(5) of the Constitution, which guarantees the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, arguing that Rajapaksa should neither face discrimination because of his political views nor receive special treatment.
Sabry also informed the court that Rajapaksa’s parents were seriously ill and that his mother had undergone heart surgery the previous day.
He requested bail on exceptional grounds.
However, the Bribery Commission opposed the application, arguing that the circumstances presented did not constitute exceptional grounds and that witnesses must be protected from possible interference.
After considering submissions from both sides, Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama announced that the order on Rajapaksa’s bail application would be delivered on November 3. (Newswire)