COLOMBO – Former Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe has been arrested on charges of misusing state funds during his time in office, marking a dramatic turn in the country’s ongoing political turmoil. Authorities confirmed that the arrest followed investigations into alleged financial irregularities linked to state resources.
Wickremesinghe, who served as president until 2024, has faced increasing scrutiny over his handling of state expenditures and governance decisions made during Sri Lanka’s severe economic crisis. Officials allege that millions in public funds were misappropriated under his administration for purposes unrelated to state welfare.
The arrest has ignited a storm in Sri Lanka’s political landscape, with his supporters denouncing the move as politically motivated. Opposition figures, however, argue that accountability is long overdue, stressing that the misuse of public money must be investigated regardless of rank or influence.
The development comes at a sensitive moment for Sri Lanka, as the nation continues to recover from years of financial instability, widespread protests, and rising public discontent. Analysts believe that the case could have far-reaching implications for the country’s political environment and its efforts to rebuild public trust.
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