News Today: Bimal Ratnayake accuses Opposition MPs of double standards on Ranil Wickremesinghe arrest and misuse of state funds

Leader of the House and Minister Bimal Ratnayake strongly criticized Opposition MPs in Parliament yesterday, accusing them of practicing double standards when it comes to the rule of law and accountability.

Ratnayake pointed out that some Opposition MPs publicly declare that the law applies equally to all, yet contradict themselves by questioning the arrest of politically powerful individuals such as former President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

He said: “What has happened to Opposition MPs today is that they welcome the prevailing of the rule of law but are worried when it is applied to them and their associates. How can they claim that the law is equal to all?”

The Minister emphasized that the Government’s position is clear—anyone who has committed a mistake will face the law regardless of their rank or status. He condemned Opposition figures for standing on behalf of individuals who misused public funds, destroyed national wealth, and drove the country toward bankruptcy.

Referring specifically to Wickremesinghe’s arrest, Ratnayake stated that the former President had undertaken a personal tour to the United Kingdom using public funds, which amounted to misuse of state resources. He reminded Parliament that he had tabled evidence of this misuse two months earlier, including the official expenditure bill related to the trip.

“We will not take revenge on anyone,” Ratnayake added. “But today the law is being implemented equally, regardless of position or political influence.”

The Minister also used the opportunity to call for unity across the country. Addressing MPs from the North and East, he urged them to seize opportunities for peace instead of fueling divisions. He stressed that political unity and tolerance of differences would strengthen development, while opposition to accountability would only lead to the political extinction of those clinging to the old order.

Ratnayake concluded by asserting that the Government remains committed to progress, unity, and the strengthening of democratic institutions, while ensuring that no one—no matter how powerful—is above the law.