UPDATE: Judge Recusal: Namal's Case Takes a New Turn

COLOMBO (News 1st); Colombo High Court Judge Manjula Thilakaratne has recused himself from the ongoing case against Namal Rajapaksa, who is accused of misappropriating Rs. 70 million.

The case is scheduled to be heard on May 21 under a different judge.

Colombo High Court Judge Manjula Thilakaratne announced his decision to step down from the case, citing concerns over social media comments made by senior journalists Sanath Balasuriya and Poddala Jayanta. 

Based on these comments the judge noted that it has led to a perception of bias in the public eye.

Translated Excerpt from the High Court Judge's Statement:

"The Registrar of the High Court informed me that Sanath Balasuriya and Poddala Jayanta had made certain statements on Facebook regarding this case and my involvement. Following this notification, I instructed the Registrar to submit a detailed report, which I received on February 18. The report indicated that the statements circulated on Facebook were false. It is necessary to investigate whether these statements have brought disrepute to the judiciary, but it is not appropriate for me to conduct this investigation. Therefore, it is essential for another suitable High Court judge to consider this matter. Additionally, these statements have created a public perception that this court may not deliver fair justice in this case. Although this court has the full capacity to ensure justice is served, I have decided to recuse myself to maintain the integrity of the judicial process. Despite the false nature of these statements, they have influenced public opinion, leading to a belief that justice may not be properly administered by this court. Consequently, I have decided not to continue with this case."

The case has been referred to Colombo Chief High Court Judge Aditya Patabendige for the appointment of a new judge. 

Judge Sujith Nishshanka was initially appointed but declined to hear the case due to personal reasons. 

Consequently, the case will be referred back to Chief Judge Patabendige for the appointment of another suitable judge.