MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake has been ordered to remain in remand custody until 8 April 2025.
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court issued the order today (1 April) after he was produced before the court. Dassanayake, who was arrested on 27 March, was granted bail in two cases but remains in remand over a third charge. He had previously been remanded until today for further proceedings.
The charges against Dassanayake relate to his tenure as Chief Minister of Uva Province in 2016. The Bribery Commission alleges that he solicited funds from three state banks under the pretext of providing bags for preschool children in the province.
Two banks complied, transferring Rs. 1 million and Rs. 2.5 million, which were later deposited into his personal foundation account. However, when a third bank refused, Dassanayake allegedly retaliated by withdrawing the Uva Provincial Council’s fixed deposits from that institution.
The Bribery Commission has filed a case against the MP, citing a government financial loss of Rs. 17.3 million due to his actions.
After reviewing the evidence, the court ruled that while Dassanayake could be released on bail for two charges, he must remain in remand for the third. Investigations are ongoing.
