Opposition unites in Colombo, calling Wickremesinghe’s arrest a “constitutional dictatorship”—what it means for Sri Lanka’s democracy.
Late August 2025 saw a historic union of opposition leaders in Colombo, rallying behind former President Ranil Wickremesinghe and denouncing his arrest as symptomatic of a growing “constitutional dictatorship.” The joint media briefing, featuring prominent figures across party lines—including Maithripala Sirisena, Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, G. L. Peiris, and others—cast a spotlight on deep fears for Sri Lanka’s democratic institutions. Their message: his arrest is not just about an individual, but a systemic threat.
Background & Arrest Details
On 22 August 2025, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department on allegations of misusing state funds during his presidency from 2022 to 2024. The accusation centers on a reportedly private side-trip to London for his wife’s graduation, attached to official travel in the U.S. and Cuba, costing nearly Rs 16.9 million (~US$50,000)
.The following day, Wickremesinghe was hospitalized with complications tied to dehydration, diabetes, and high blood pressure, prompting a transfer to intensive care. While he is reportedly stable, the hospitalization has intensified public scrutiny
.The arrest triggered criticism from regional voices, including Indian MP Shashi Tharoor, who labeled the charges “trivial” and warned against vendetta-driven politics
The Media Briefing: Opposition Speaks Out
On the morning after the arrest, opposition leaders gathered in Colombo for an urgent media briefing. Amid surging concern, they adopted the rallying cry: “Let’s defeat the constitutional dictatorship.”
Notable attendees included:
-
Maithripala Sirisena (Former President),
-
Namal Rajapaksa, Wajira Abeywardana, Sagala Rathnayaka, Patali Champika Ranawaka,
-
G. L. Peiris, Harin Fernando, along with others from across the political spectrum.
Also present were voices from broader party leadership, such as Sagara Kariyawasam (SLPP General Secretary), Mano Ganesan (Tamil Progressive Alliance), Rauff Hakeem (Sri Lanka Muslim Congress), and former ministers like Nimal Siripala de Silva and Dayasiri Jayasekara.
Chandrika Kumaratunga’s message, read by UNP General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala, declared a scathing denunciation:
“What we are witnessing is a calculated onslaught on the very essence of our democratic values…”
She framed the situation as more than an individual’s fate—it is a moment that threatens the rights of all citizens .
G. L. Peiris echoed this sentiment, arguing the arrest was unjustified:
-
Wickremesinghe remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
-
With 33 witness testimonies already recorded, there’s no threat of obstructing justice.
-
He poses no flight risk and remains politically active within Sri Lanka .
These leaders sharpened a narrative: the arrest appears driven by political motives, not due process.
Context & Broader Implications
Turning Point for Sri Lankan Democracy
Calling his detention a constitutional overreach, the opposition argues the move signals a dangerous precedent. The phrase “constitutional dictatorship” suggests a shift from democratic governance to legal authoritarianism—exerting control through laws and institutions.
This confrontation suggests broader political polarisation. The current administration, led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, won power in September 2024 on an anti-corruption platform. Detaining Wickremesinghe, credited with managing the economy during crisis—even amid unpopular austerity—underscores their push to dismantle entrenched political elites .
Legal Fairness vs Political Motive
Opposition leaders maintain that justice must be impartial. They stress:
-
Wickremesinghe is presumed innocent.
-
Arrest doesn’t aid an already-advanced investigation.
-
Detention based on suspicion undermines trust in legal institutions.
Meanwhile, supporters of the government might argue the rule of law demands accountability—even for former presidents.
Health Crisis Adds Humanitarian Lens
The sudden hospitalization adds a humanitarian dimension. Critics may point to his age (76) and pre-existing health conditions as reasons to consider bail. The optics of a frail, former president in ICU after arrest amplify public emotion and political tension .
Regional & International Reaction
Tharoor’s comments highlight wider concern about judicial fairness and political retaliation. International observers may now scrutinize:
-
Sri Lanka’s rule-of-law standards.
-
The government’s tolerance for dissent.
-
Potential chilling effects on politicians and media.
This incident could reshape Sri Lanka’s global image—either as a nation confronting corruption or as one sliding toward suppressing political opposition.
Democracy at a Crossroads
Sri Lanka confronts a pivotal moment. The arrest of Ranil Wickremesinghe—once a key figure in stabilizing the nation—has summoned fears of democratic erosion. Opposition unity and powerful messaging like “defeat the constitutional dictatorship” reflect deep concern.
Ultimately, this is not just about finances or an arrest. It’s about the soul of Sri Lanka’s democracy—its institutions, freedoms, and checks and balances. The coming days will test both the strength of the judicial process and the resilience of democratic values.