Basil is ill

Former Minister Basil Rajapaksa had reserved airline tickets to return to Sri Lanka today, but these arrangements were later cancelled, the Matara Magistrate’s Court was told this morning. The revelation was made when the case relating to the purchase of a property in Browns Hill, Matara—allegedly using illegally acquired funds—was taken up.

In addition to former Minister Rajapaksa, the other accused in the case are his wife’s sister, Ayoma Galappaththi, her husband Tissa Galappaththi, and Muditha Jayakody. When the case was called, neither Basil Rajapaksa nor Ayoma Galappaththi appeared in open court. Only their bail guarantors were present on their behalf.

Medical Reports 

President’s Counsel Anil Silva, appearing for Basil Rajapaksa, submitted to the court several medical reports confirming his client’s ill health.

Deputy Solicitor General Lakmini Girihagama, appearing for the Attorney General, informed the court that there were certain inconsistencies within the medical documents presented regarding the suspect’s medical condition.

Counsel explained that while airline tickets had indeed been booked for Mr. Rajapaksa to return to Sri Lanka today, they were subsequently cancelled as his medical condition had reportedly worsened. As the medical records had been formally submitted, the court accepted them.