Shadow Pay and Silent Scandals: The Arrest of Nipuni Krishnajina

In a startling turn of events that underscores the deepening probes into political misconduct in Sri Lanka, a domestic aide of former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella was taken into custody on June 11. The arrest, made by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, brings renewed attention to allegations of fraudulent state appointments and the misuse of public funds under the guise of official employment.

The woman, identified as Rajapaksha Subasinha Pathiranage Nipuni Krishnajina, a resident of Embilipitiya, was reportedly serving in the personal household of Rambukwella. However, records revealed she was drawing a government salary and overtime allowances as if she were an employee of the Ministry of Health. Authorities allege this is a clear case of a nominal appointment — a fraudulent practice where political appointees receive public remuneration without performing any official duties.

According to a statement released by the Bribery Commission, this arrest is directly linked to the broader investigation into Rambukwella’s tenure as Health Minister. The commission claims that such appointments, made as political favours — violate standard recruitment procedures in the public service and constitute abuse of state resources.

Nipuni Krishnajina was presented before the Aluthkade Magistrate’s Court, where she was remanded until June 17 pending further inquiries. Legal analysts suggest that this could be a critical step toward holding not just lower-level beneficiaries accountable, but also higher-level orchestrators of systemic corruption.

The practice of shadow employment, especially within ministerial circles, has long been whispered about but rarely proven. Critics argue that such acts not only bleed state coffers but also erode public trust in governance. With this arrest, the Bribery Commission appears to be sending a strong signal that no one, regardless of political affiliation or position, is above the law.

As the investigation continues, all eyes now turn to Keheliya Rambukwella, who has previously faced scrutiny over similar allegations. Whether this arrest will lead to more high-profile charges remains to be seen, but it undeniably adds another layer to Sri Lanka’s ongoing struggle with political accountability and institutional reform.