News Today: Opposition MPs react to Ranil Wickremesinghe arrest in Sri Lanka, calling it politically motivated and a threat to democracy

A group of Opposition Parliamentarians and former political leaders have raised strong concern over the arrest and subsequent remanding of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who faces allegations of misusing State funds for a private overseas visit.

At a joint media briefing held yesterday (24 August), senior Opposition figures came together to demand Wickremesinghe’s immediate release, describing the arrest as a possible politically motivated act that threatens the democratic fabric of Sri Lanka.

Former President Maithripala Sirisena, speaking at the event, expressed deep sadness over the remanding of his predecessor. He pledged that the Opposition, with the support of legal professionals, will take every democratic step to secure Wickremesinghe’s release. Sirisena questioned whether the arrest was politically influenced and warned that if such actions continue, the country’s democratic values could be at grave risk.

He stated: “We can now clearly see the essential features of a democratic society gradually fading away. In such circumstances, it is vital that media institutions, the Maha Sangha, respected religious leaders, public servants, artistes, schoolchildren, and all citizens of this country recognise the true value of living in a democratic society.”

Sirisena further stressed the importance of setting aside party and political divisions to unite in safeguarding democracy, calling for solidarity in the face of what he described as a direct challenge to the nation’s democratic principles.

The media conference also saw the attendance of several prominent Opposition leaders including Thalatha Atukorale, G.L. Peiris, Dayasiri Jayasekara, Patali Champika Ranawaka, Mano Ganesan, Nimal Siripala de Silva, Sagara Kariyawasam, and Namal Rajapaksa. Their joint presence reflected a rare moment of unity across party lines in response to Wickremesinghe’s arrest.