Second Judge Recuses from Namal Rajapaksa’s Money Laundering Case, Further Delaying Proceedings
By: Ovindi Vishmika
March 27, Colombo (LNW): The money laundering case against Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has faced another setback as a second High Court judge has recused himself from hearing the case.
Earlier today, Colombo High Court Judge Manjula Thilakaratne announced in open court that he would withdraw from the case, citing social media posts targeting him. The case was then reassigned to High Court Judge Sujeewa Nissanka, who also recused himself shortly after.
However,Judge Thilakaratne stated that his decision was influenced by two social media posts made against him by individuals named Sanath Balasooriya and Poddala Jayantha. Following his withdrawal, the case was referred to Judge Sujeewa Nissanka, who took it up for hearing. However, Judge Nissanka also opted to withdraw from the case, leading to further delays.
As a result, the matter has now been referred to Colombo Chief High Court Judge Adithya Patabendige. The case is scheduled to be recalled on May 21, when a new judge will be appointed to continue proceedings.
The case against Namal Rajapaksa is linked to alleged money laundering in connection with the controversial ‘Krrish’ project, a large-scale real estate investment deal. The repeated recusals have raised concerns about the progress of the legal proceedings.
