Ranil ready to answer summons in connection with probe under Anti-Corruption Act against ex-Uva Chief Minister

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has expressed his readiness to appear before the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) in connection with an ongoing investigation under the Anti-Corruption Act.

The Commission has summoned Wickremesinghe to provide a statement regarding a case filed against New Democratic Front MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake. The former President is scheduled to appear before CIABOC next Thursday (17) at 9:30 am.

 The summons follows a media statement made by Wickremesinghe, in which he referenced the case, prompting the Commission to request any information he may have to substantiate his remarks. In a letter addressed to the former President, CIABOC’s Assistant Director General Asitha Anthony stated that Wickremesinghe’s comments suggest he possesses further knowledge relevant to the inquiry.

The investigation relates to allegations that MP Dassanayake engaged in corrupt activity by prematurely withdrawing a fixed deposit from the National Savings Bank in 2016.

CIABOC has noted that if Wickremesinghe fails to appear without a valid reason, the Commission will act under Article 126 of the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023.Wickremesinghe, in response to the summons, has confirmed his willingness to cooperate and present any supporting documents during his appearance.