Supporters cheer as Rajapaksa faces investigators in corruption probe

Former Sri Lankan president and accused war criminal Mahinda Rajapaksa appeared before the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) on Tuesday (May 12) to record a statement in connection with the controversial Airbus aircraft procurement deal involving SriLankan Airlines.

Rajapaksa left the Bribery Commission premises after nearly two hours, following the recording of his statement before investigators.

A large number of Rajapaksa supporters had also gathered outside the Bribery Commission premises to express support for Rajapaksa during his appearance before investigators. Former Minister Prasanna Ranatunga, addressing the media, stated, “You cannot discourage the leader who saved the country through acts like these,” in reference to the Airbus investigation involving Rajapaksa.

The Bribery Commission has also issued a summons to former Minister of Aviation services Priyankara Jayaratne over the same investigation. The inquiry is linked to the purchase of Airbus aircraft for the national carrier during the Rajapaksa administration.

The investigation centres on allegations surrounding an alleged US$2 million bribe connected to the 2013 aircraft procurement deal. The matter has remained under investigation for a long time following international scrutiny over Airbus transactions in multiple countries.

According to reports, former SriLankan Airlines Chief Executive Officer Kapila Chandrasena, who was named as a key suspect in the case, had allegedly stated that Rs. 60 million from the purported bribe money was handed over to Mahinda Rajapaksa. The allegations are currently being probed by the Bribery Commission.

Kapila Chandrasena was recently found dead in Colombo, days after being granted bail in the Airbus corruption case.

At the time of his death, a fresh warrant had been issued for his arrest after the court was informed that he had allegedly produced 'paid' sureties to secure his release. Authorities are yet to release further details regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.