Supreme Court to Hear Appeals of Two Former Ministers on March 19

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Supreme Court scheduled March 19 to hear the appeals filed by former ministers Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Nalin Fernando, who are currently serving prison terms following convictions in a corruption-related case.

The appeals were listed before a bench consisting of Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justice Achala Wengappuli.

When the matter was called, the two convicted individuals,Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Nalin Fernando, were produced in court by prison authorities.

President’s Counsel Nalin Ladduwahetty and President’s Counsel Ali Sabry, appearing for the appellants, informed the Court that the appeals involve complex and technical legal arguments, and therefore requested permission to file comprehensive written submissions.

Representatives for the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) requested that the Court fix a date to proceed with the hearing.

After considering the submissions, the bench granted the parties permission to file written arguments and formally scheduled the appeal hearing for March 19.

The convictions relate to a case filed by the Bribery Commission, alleging that during the 2015 presidential election period, the two former ministers caused a state loss exceeding Rs. 50 million by importing14,000 carrom boards, and 11,000 draughts (dam) board, tthrough the Sathosa retail network.

Both individuals were found guilty and sentenced to 25 years’ rigorous imprisonment each.