Indian Govt Invitation, Buddhist Ceremony Cited in Namal’s Bail Application

An invitation from the Indian government and a scheduled Buddhist religious ceremony were among the grounds presented by lawyers representing SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa in support of his bail application in the Airbus bribery case.

Rajapaksa, who is in remand custody over allegations involving a Rs. 100 million bribe, appeared before Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama on Friday (18).

President’s Counsel Shamindra Fernando, appearing for Rajapaksa, argued that exceptional circumstances had emerged since the court previously rejected his client’s bail application.

He told the court that Rajapaksa had received an invitation from the Indian government to visit India but would have to cancel the trip because of his continued detention.

The defence also submitted that Rajapaksa had been invited by a chief incumbent monk to participate in a religious ceremony during the annual Hingurakgoda Esala Perahera.

According to the defence, Rajapaksa was scheduled to participate in the installation of a pinnacle at a temple at 7:42 p.m. on September 26. His inability to attend would be disrespectful to the monk who extended the invitation, his lawyer argued.

Fernando also questioned the evidence against his client, arguing that Rajapaksa’s name did not appear in the international investigation report concerning the Airbus deal. He further challenged the reliability of statements made by businessman Nimal Perera.

Responding to the submissions, Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara, representing the Bribery Commission, argued that neither the Indian visit nor the religious ceremony constituted exceptional circumstances warranting bail.

He also maintained that questions concerning the credibility of witnesses should be determined during a trial.

After considering submissions from both sides, the magistrate ordered Rajapaksa to remain in remand custody until September 29, when the court is scheduled to deliver its decision on the bail application.

The defence was directed to file written submissions by September 22, while the Bribery Commission was ordered to submit its written arguments by September 25. (Newswire)

Source: BBC Sinh

ala, September 18, 2026.

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