Hirunika apologizes for the 'dog sex' story - after befriending Ashu at a press conference

Professor Ashu Marasinghe, a UNP activist, had filed a lawsuit seeking Rs. 1.5 billion in compensation from Hirunika Premachandra of the Samagi Vanitha Balawegaya and his ex-wife Adarsha Karandana, alleging that they defamed him by holding a press conference and claiming he abused a dog. The video released by Hirunika in 2022 revealed Ashu Marasinghe engaging in sexual activity with a dog.

This led to public disgust towards Ashu Marasinghe and UNP members close to him. 

 Although Professor Ashu Marasinghe resigned from his position as President Ranil Wickremesinghe's advisor on parliamentary affairs in December 2022, stating that he resigned due to personal reasons,
Former Member of Parliament Hirunika Premachandra revealed at a press conference during those days that he was forced to resign due to a video circulating on social media showing him engaging in an unusual sexual act with a dog.

Following an agreement reached parallel to the judicial process, the relevant lawsuit has concluded with Ms. Hirunika Premachandra expressing apology and regret in court for all the insults and defamation directed at her party.

Although an apology was made for this defamation, it was not revealed in court that the video was false. The complainant Marasinghe's side stated at today's press conference that they are grateful to her for the step she took, understanding the true situation, and that they are pleased with the court verdict received in their favor.

Ashu Marasinghe also made a special request to the entire Sri Lankan society and opposition groups not to use various platforms, including social media, to distort incidents and harm private lives. He further emphasized the need to discuss real politics instead of personal mudslinging at a time when the country is moving towards a new political culture. With the conclusion of this lawsuit, both parties representing the United National Party and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya have emphasized the importance of setting aside their personal disputes and disagreements and reuniting.