Overview
- The Colombo Fort Magistrate released Wickremesinghe on a five-million-rupee bond after a hearing held under tight security and set the next court date for October 29.
- Wickremesinghe joined proceedings by video from Colombo National Hospital, where he is receiving treatment after dehydration, as his lawyers cited serious cardiac concerns.
- Prosecutors allege he misused about LKR 16.6–17 million in public funds for a UK stopover linked to his wife’s university event, which he contests as an official visit with her expenses paid privately.
- The August 22 arrest made Wickremesinghe the first former Sri Lankan head of state to be detained on such charges.
- Supporters rallied outside the court as opposition figures decried a political witch hunt, while government officials said the case reflects equal application of anti-corruption laws.