Will President Anura Allow Mahinda’s Plea? The Rajapaksas Face a Tough Road Ahead

 

Speculation is rife about the fate of legal investigations into former First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa, as claims surface that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa has personally appealed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to halt the inquiries.

The allegations, revealed by veteran journalist Chandana Kariyawasam on his Wayama YouTube channel, suggest that the government is gearing up to pursue legal action against Shiranthi Rajapaksa over her alleged involvement in the high-profile murder of rugby player Wasim Thajudeen. Notably, Kariyawasam alleged that an army vehicle tied to the Siriliya Foundation, which Shiranthi Rajapaksa chaired, was used in the crime.

According to Kariyawasam, Mahinda Rajapaksa has reached out to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, requesting leniency for his wife. “Mahinda Rajapaksa has spoken to President Anura Kumara and made a very humble plea: ‘Don’t bring Shiranthi to the CID. She is a grandmother now, and doing so would cause great distress to the family.’ This is based on a reliable source,” Kariyawasam said in his broadcast.

A History of Stalled Investigations

The claims also resurrect memories of past administrations failing to take decisive action against the Rajapaksa family. Kariyawasam pointed out that former President Maithripala Sirisena had also attempted to probe the family but ultimately halted investigations against Shiranthi Rajapaksa.

However, the journalist emphasized that the current administration may take a different approach. “President Anura Kumara was elected because of the trust placed in him by the people. The promises he made on his platforms and the energy he projected must now translate into action,” he stated.

Government Silence

Thus far, neither Shiranthi Rajapaksa nor any member of her family has issued a statement in response to these revelations. The government led by the JVP/Malima coalition under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has also maintained silence, leaving the public speculating about whether the administration will pursue the case or concede to political pressure.

The situation has sparked widespread debate, with many calling for the government to uphold its promises of transparency and accountability. The unfolding events will likely serve as a litmus test for the administration’s commitment to justice and the rule of law.

Watch the video on the Wayama YouTube channel here.

Stay tuned as the story develops.