Court Orders Defense in Case Against Former Deputy Minister

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Colombo High Court Judge R.S.S. Sapuwida has ordered former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena to present his defense in the corruption case filed against him by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption.

The case pertains to allegations that Gunawardena, during his tenure as Chairman of the Development Lotteries Board from August 1, 2007, to August 1, 2008, misused a vehicle leased by the board, causing a financial loss of Rs. 9.6 million to the government.

The court was set to decide today whether to acquit Gunawardena of the charges or to call for his defense. Announcing the decision, Judge Sapuwida stated that the court has decided to call for the defense from the accused.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for July 21, instructing Gunawardena to present his defense on that date.