Minister of Justice Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe says it has been recommended that former MP Ranjan Ramanayake to be released from prison on a special pardon after submitting an official apology to the courts on the comment made by him. 

Rajapakshe pointed out the government believes that the presidential pardon is justified due to the fact that Ranjan Ramanayake has already been incarcerated for a lengthy period, has maintained good behaviour and is able to contribute to society.

The Minister said that to ensure the transparency of the process, the advice of the Attorney General and the report of the Commissioner General of Prisons were obtained and after considering all matters, it was recommended that a conditional pardon is appropriate.