Ranil Wickremesinghe Arrested: Former Sri Lankan President Makes History as First Ex-Leader in Custody Over Corruption Charges – Full Story Inside
Former President Faces Corruption Charges in Unprecedented Political Development
Sri Lanka witnessed a historic moment on August 22, 2025, when former President Ranil Wickremesinghe became the first former head of state in the country’s history to be arrested. The 76-year-old veteran politician now faces serious allegations of misusing public funds during his presidency, marking a dramatic turn in Sri Lankan politics.
The arrest sends shockwaves through the political establishment and raises questions about accountability at the highest levels of government. This comprehensive analysis examines the allegations, legal proceedings, and wider implications of this unprecedented development.
The Charges: What Led to Ranil’s Arrest?
The London Trip Controversy
The charges against Wickremesinghe center on allegations that he misused state funds to cover expenses for a private visit to London during his presidency, where he attended a university graduation ceremony of his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe. The incident occurred in September 2023 during what investigators claim was a personal detour disguised as official business.
According to court documents, Wickremesinghe traveled to the United Kingdom on September 22-23, 2023, to attend his wife’s PhD graduation ceremony at the University of Wolverhampton. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) alleges this visit had no official purpose and was instead tagged onto Wickremesinghe’s state trip to Cuba and the United States.
The Financial Impact
The financial scale of the alleged misappropriation is significant. Government records show approximately Rs. 16.9 million (roughly $50,000) in public funds were spent on airfare, accommodation, and related expenses for the London leg of the journey. A delegation accompanied the former president, inflating the costs further.
Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris revealed to the court that while initial documentation described the trip as private, investigators discovered the documents were later altered to reflect it as an official visit. This alleged falsification of records adds another layer of seriousness to the charges.
Legal Framework and Charges
Wickremesinghe faces three specific charges:
- Misappropriation of state property under the Public Property Act
- Dishonest misappropriation under the Penal Code
- Criminal breach of trust involving public resources
These charges carry significant penalties and could result in imprisonment if proven in court. The case represents one of the most serious corruption allegations ever brought against a former Sri Lankan president.
The Investigation Timeline: Months in the Making
Early Investigation Phase
The inquiry into Wickremesinghe’s travel expenses began several months before his arrest. In late June 2025, the CID informed the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court about launching a special probe into overseas trips “reportedly funded with public money.”
The investigation gained momentum when officers submitted a detailed B-report outlining the allegations and financial findings. This report provided the legal foundation for continuing the inquiry and eventually led to arrest proceedings.
Key Witness Testimonies
As part of evidence-gathering, the CID questioned two of Wickremesinghe’s former senior aides in early August:
- Saman Ekanayake, then-presidential secretary
- Sandra Perera, private secretary
Both officials were directly involved in arranging and authorizing the 2023 London visit. Their statements were crucial in determining how the trip was approved and expensed, providing investigators with insider knowledge of the decision-making process.
The Arrest Day
On August 22, 2025, Wickremesinghe arrived at CID headquarters in Colombo after being summoned to provide a statement. After several hours of questioning, he was placed under arrest in the early afternoon. The timing and manner of the arrest followed standard legal procedures, though the political significance made it extraordinary.
Court Proceedings and Current Status
Magistrate Court Appearance
Following his arrest, Wickremesinghe appeared before Colombo Fort Magistrate Nilupuli Lankapura and was ordered to be remanded until August 26. Despite his legal team’s bail application citing health concerns, the court ordered his continued detention.
President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne, representing Wickremesinghe, argued for bail on health grounds. The defense highlighted that the former president suffers from heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. They also mentioned that his wife is battling cancer and requires his care.
Prison Hospital Admission
The former president was later taken to the prison hospital on doctors’ advice after being remanded. Medical examinations revealed elevated blood pressure and sugar levels, necessitating specialized medical attention within the correctional facility.
This development adds a humanitarian dimension to the case, as the 76-year-old’s health condition becomes a factor in his detention circumstances.
Political Background: The Man Behind the Headlines
Political Career Spanning Decades
Ranil Wickremesinghe has been a dominant figure in Sri Lankan politics since entering Parliament in 1977. His political journey includes:
- Six separate terms as Prime Minister from the 1990s onwards
- Leadership of the United National Party (UNP) since 1994
- President from 2022 to 2024 during Sri Lanka’s worst economic crisis
His long political career makes this arrest particularly significant, as it involves a figure who has shaped Sri Lankan politics for nearly five decades.
The Economic Crisis Leadership
Wickremesinghe assumed the presidency in 2022 following the popular uprising that forced his predecessor, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, to flee the country. During Sri Lanka’s worst-ever economic crisis, he was widely credited with stabilizing the economy and negotiating international bailout packages.
His leadership during this critical period earned him recognition both domestically and internationally. However, he lost the 2024 presidential election to left-leaning candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake, transitioning from president to opposition politician.
Political Reactions and Controversies
The YouTuber Prediction Controversy
A particularly controversial aspect of Wickremesinghe’s arrest involves predictions made by a popular YouTuber known as “Suda” (Sudaththa Thilakasiri). The content creator accurately predicted the arrest date, leading to widespread speculation about potential political orchestration.
Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa expressed concerns, stating: “A YouTuber predicting the arrest of a former President before it even happens? That can’t be a coincidence, could it be planned? If true, it’s a sad day when something as sacred as law and order is reduced to cheap theatrics.”
Support from Political Allies
Former Foreign Minister Ali Sabry defended Wickremesinghe, describing the arrest as “deeply troubling” and indicative of “vindictive politics.” He highlighted Wickremesinghe’s contributions during three critical periods in Sri Lankan history:
- 1993: Ensuring governance continuity after President Premadasa’s assassination
- 2000: Restoring growth during the first recession
- 2022: Leading during the worst economic crisis
Government’s Response
Sri Lanka’s Security Minister emphasized that “no one is above the law,” defending the arrest as part of the current government’s commitment to fighting corruption. This stance reflects the new administration’s promise to hold all officials accountable, regardless of their political stature.
Legal Implications and Precedents
Historic Nature of the Arrest
This arrest establishes several important precedents in Sri Lankan legal and political history:
- First former president to face criminal charges
- Demonstration that high office doesn’t provide immunity from prosecution
- Test of Sri Lanka’s judicial independence and rule of law
Potential Consequences
If convicted, Wickremesinghe could face:
- Imprisonment under anti-corruption statutes
- Financial penalties and asset forfeiture
- Political disqualification from holding future office
- Damage to his historical legacy
International Attention
The arrest has drawn international media coverage, highlighting Sri Lanka’s commitment to addressing corruption. This development could influence how international partners and investors view Sri Lanka’s governance standards and rule of law.
Analysis: Broader Implications
Political Landscape Impact
Wickremesinghe’s arrest reshapes Sri Lanka’s political dynamics:
- Weakens the opposition UNP, which he leads
- Strengthens the current government’s anti-corruption credentials
- Creates uncertainty about future political alliances
- Tests public opinion on accountability versus stability
Economic Considerations
Given Wickremesinghe’s role in economic stabilization, his legal troubles raise questions about policy continuity and investor confidence. However, the demonstration of accountability could also enhance Sri Lanka’s international reputation for governance.
Democratic Institutions
The arrest tests the strength of Sri Lankan democratic institutions:
- Judicial independence in handling high-profile cases
- Police investigation capabilities and impartiality
- Public trust in the rule of law
- Media freedom in reporting sensitive political developments
Public and International Response
Domestic Reaction
Public opinion remains divided:
- Supporters view it as political persecution
- Critics see it as overdue accountability
- Many express concern about the timing and manner of the arrest
- Civil society organizations monitor the proceedings closely
International Community
International observers are watching the case to assess:
- Sri Lanka’s commitment to rule of law
- The fairness of judicial proceedings
- Implications for democratic governance
- Impact on international relations and aid programs
Looking Forward: What’s Next?
Immediate Legal Steps
The next phase involves:
- Court hearing on August 26 for remand extension
- Formal charge sheet filing
- Bail reconsideration based on health conditions
- Evidence presentation by prosecution and defense
Long-term Political Impact
This case will likely influence:
- Future elections and political alignments
- Anti-corruption legislation and enforcement
- Public expectations of political accountability
- International perceptions of Sri Lankan governance
Constitutional Questions
The arrest raises important constitutional issues about:
- Presidential immunity and its limits
- Separation of powers between branches of government
- Due process rights for former high officials
- Balance between political stability and accountability
A Defining Moment for Sri Lankan Democracy
Ranil Wickremesinghe’s arrest represents more than just a legal proceeding—it’s a defining moment that tests Sri Lanka’s commitment to democratic values and rule of law. While supporters cry political persecution and critics demand accountability, the case ultimately demonstrates that no one, regardless of their political stature, stands above the law.
The allegations against Sri Lanka’s most experienced politician are serious and warrant thorough investigation. The manner in which this case proceeds will send important signals about the country’s judicial independence, commitment to fighting corruption, and respect for democratic institutions.
As Sri Lanka continues its recovery from economic crisis and political upheaval, this historic arrest serves as both a challenge and an opportunity. It challenges the political establishment to embrace transparency and accountability while offering an opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions and public trust.
The coming weeks and months will reveal whether this unprecedented legal action represents a genuine commitment to justice or becomes another chapter in Sri Lanka’s complex political saga. Regardless of the outcome, Ranil Wickremesinghe’s arrest has already made history and will undoubtedly influence Sri Lankan politics for years to come.
The eyes of the nation—and the international community—remain fixed on how this historic case unfolds, making it a crucial test of Sri Lanka’s democratic maturity and commitment to the principles of justice and accountability that underpin any healthy democracy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why was Ranil Wickremesinghe arrested?
Ranil Wickremesinghe was arrested on charges of misusing state funds for a private trip to London in September 2023. He allegedly used Rs. 16.9 million in public money to attend his wife’s graduation ceremony at the University of Wolverhampton, disguising it as an official visit.
2. Is this the first time a former Sri Lankan president has been arrested?
Yes, Ranil Wickremesinghe is the first former Executive President in Sri Lankan history to be arrested. This makes his case unprecedented and historically significant.
3. What are the specific charges against Wickremesinghe?
He faces three main charges:
- Misappropriation of state property under the Public Property Act
- Dishonest misappropriation under the Penal Code
- Criminal breach of trust involving public resources
4. How much money was allegedly misused?
According to court documents, approximately Rs. 16.9 million (roughly $50,000) in public funds were spent on the London trip, including airfare, accommodation, and expenses for his delegation.
5. What was the London trip about?
The trip was to attend the PhD graduation ceremony of his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, at the University of Wolverhampton in September 2023. This personal visit was allegedly added to his official state trip to Cuba and the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why was Ranil Wickremesinghe arrested?
Ranil Wickremesinghe was arrested on charges of misusing state funds for a private trip to London in September 2023. He allegedly used Rs. 16.9 million in public money to attend his wife’s graduation ceremony at the University of Wolverhampton, disguising it as an official visit.
2. Is this the first time a former Sri Lankan president has been arrested?
Yes, Ranil Wickremesinghe is the first former Executive President in Sri Lankan history to be arrested. This makes his case unprecedented and historically significant.
3. What are the specific charges against Wickremesinghe?
He faces three main charges:
- Misappropriation of state property under the Public Property Act
- Dishonest misappropriation under the Penal Code
- Criminal breach of trust involving public resources
4. How much money was allegedly misused?
According to court documents, approximately Rs. 16.9 million (roughly $50,000) in public funds were spent on the London trip, including airfare, accommodation, and expenses for his delegation.
5. What was the London trip about?
The trip was to attend the PhD graduation ceremony of his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, at the University of Wolverhampton in September 2023. This personal visit was allegedly added to his official state trip to Cuba and the United States.
6. Was Wickremesinghe granted bail?
No, his bail application was denied despite his lawyers citing health concerns including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The court ordered him to be remanded until August 26, 2025.
7. Why is Wickremesinghe in the prison hospital?
He was admitted to the prison hospital due to elevated blood pressure and sugar levels following his remand. His age (76 years) and existing health conditions necessitated medical supervision.
8. What is the YouTuber prediction controversy?
A popular YouTuber named “Suda” (Sudaththa Thilakasiri) accurately predicted Wickremesinghe’s arrest date before it happened, leading to allegations that the arrest was politically orchestrated rather than purely legal.
9. How long could Wickremesinghe face in prison if convicted?
If convicted on all charges, he could face several years in prison under Sri Lankan anti-corruption laws, along with financial penalties and potential disqualification from holding public office.
10. Who is investigating the case?
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Sri Lanka is handling the investigation, with Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris representing the prosecution in court.