Former Health Minister Rajitha Senaratne and SPC Chairman Acquitted by Colombo High Court

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Colombo High Court Judge Sujeewa Nissanka today ordered the acquittal of former Health Minister Rajitha Senaratne and State Pharmaceutical Corporation Chairman Mohammad Tasim Mohammad Rumi. 

The case accused them of inciting false statements during a press conference ahead of the 2019 presidential election.

The allegations centered on claims made during a press conference held on November 10, 2019, in Thimbirigasyaya.

During the event, individuals alleged abductions and killings using white vans under the direction of then-presidential candidate Gotabaya Rajapaksa, as well as claims regarding the possession of gold from Velupillai Prabhakaran.

Senior President’s Counsel Anil Silva, representing the defendants, previously argued that the prosecution had failed to present sufficient evidence to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt.

He sought acquittal under Section 200(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure without calling defense evidence.

After reviewing submissions from both parties, the judge ruled that the prosecution had not met the burden of proof and ordered the acquittal of the defendants. 

The case was filed by the Attorney General on multiple charges, including making statements to the media that allegedly incited public concern.