Ranil Wickremesinghe Likely to Miss Court Appearance Due to ICU Treatment

COLOMBO (News 1st): Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who has been in remand custody since last Friday over allegations of misusing over Rs. 16.6 million in public funds for a private overseas trip, is due to be presented before the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court today (26).

However, the Department of Prisons stated that a medical report required to facilitate his court appearance has not yet been received.

According to Dr. Rukshan Bellana, Deputy Director of the National Hospital of Sri Lanka, Wickremesinghe is still undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and a medical report confirming the need for continued care has already been issued. 

He further noted that he was instructed to forward the report to the court.

Prisons Spokesperson Jagath Weerasinghe stated that due to Wickremesinghe's health condition, it is unlikely he will be presented before court today. 

He added that a final decision would be confirmed this morning.

Meanwhile, Dr. Bellana stated that only family members and individuals approved by Wickremesinghe's family are allowed to meet him. All others are restricted from visiting and may only come as far as the ICU entrance.

The Department of Prisons further noted that special security arrangements have been put in place for the former President during his hospital stay.

Wickremesinghe was arrested in connection with an ongoing investigation under the Offenses Against Public Property Act. 

The investigation relates to a private overseas trip allegedly undertaken on September 22 and 23, 2023, using public funds amounting to Rs. 16.6 million.