The Former Minister of Cooperatives and Internal Trade Johnston Fernando appeared before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry on Monday, August 8 to provide a statement on a stock of rice which was imported through Sathosa in 2014, without cabinet approval.

On his way out the former minister said that “…’Sirasa’ should be held accountable for the mud that is being slung at individuals..”

A flashback on UPFA Parliamentarian Johnston Fernando

*Investigation launched by the Criminal Investigations Department over an alleged conspiracy hatched with an LTTE member to assassinate the former president

*Police investigation into an incident where documents were destroyed in a fire which broke out at a Ministry building during his tenure as minister.

*Bribery Commission files five cases against Johnston Fernando over the failure to declare his assets accumulated during the years 2010 and 2014.

*Allegations that goods belonging to Sathosa were obtained without making any payments.

Johnston Fernando remanded and later released on bail.

*Opposition accuses the Former Minister of financial misappropriation during the 2011 Isuru Saviya Cooperative Ceremony.

*Another allegation over the alleged use of Rs.160 million for the election campaign which was obtained from a Malaysian businessman under the guise of improving the sport of rugby.

For your attention.

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