S. M. Ranjith Seeks Bail After 16-Year Sentence

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Colombo High Court has scheduled a hearing for September 9 to consider a bail application filed by former North Central Province Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith and his relative Shanthi Chandrasekara, who are currently serving a 16-year prison sentence for corruption.

The two were convicted under the Bribery Act for misusing public funds during Ranjith’s tenure as Chief Minister between September 27, 2012 and December 31, 2014. 

Shanthi Chandrasekara, who served as his personal secretary, was found guilty of receiving fuel allowances and salaries while allegedly misusing over Rs. 2.6 million through illegal fuel orders and coercing government officials to support the scheme.

Following a lengthy trial, the High Court ruled on April 2 that the charges had been proven beyond reasonable doubt and handed down a 16-year prison sentence to both individuals.

The bail application comes as part of an appeal filed with the Court of Appeal, challenging the conviction. The defense argues that the accused should be released on bail pending the outcome of the appeal.