Former North Central Province Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith and his private secretary Shanti Chandrasena have been sentenced to 16 years of rigorous imprisonment by the Colombo High Court for misusing public funds by fraudulently obtaining fuel allowances beyond their entitlements.
S.M. Ranjith is the Aunradhapura district leader of media magnate Dilith Jayaweera’s Sawajan Balaya political party. His media like “Ada Derana” have not reported the case yet.
Ranjith is the brother of Ranilist & former Minister S.M. Chandrasena, while Shanthini is Chandrasena’s wife.
Key Points:
– Charges: They were found guilty under the Bribery Act for illegally obtaining 26 lakhs’ worth (16,784 liters)** of fuel between 2012 and 2014 while Ranjith was Chief Minister.
– Additional Penalty: Each was fined Rs. 200,000, with an **extra 2 years in prison** if the fine is not paid.
-Judgment:The judge emphasized that **corruption harms the economy** and public trust, justifying a strict sentence.
– Appeal:The defendants have the right to appeal the verdict.
This case highlights Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption, especially involving public officials.