Minister Ananda Wijepala Accuses SLPP of Attempting to Undermine Rule of Law

Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala has accused the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) of attempting to weaken the country’s investigative and judicial processes, claiming recent remarks made by SLPP General Secretary Sagara Kariyawasam regarding Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya amount to a threat against the rule of law.

Speaking during a special interview with News 1st, the Minister said the government considers the statement to be a deliberate and calculated attempt rather than an isolated political comment.

Minister Claims Pattern of Pressure Against Investigators

Responding to questions on whether the remarks were made intentionally, Wijepala said similar statements had previously been directed at senior officials involved in important investigations.

He referred to criticism allegedly aimed at officials including:

• Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Director Shani Abeysekara
• Ministry Secretary Ravi Seneviratne
• Bribery Commission Director General Ranga Dissanayake

The Minister also alleged that some Opposition MPs had recently used parliamentary privileges to make statements targeting senior judicial officials, including the Chief Justice.

Alleged Attempts to Obstruct Investigations

Wijepala claimed that these developments indicate an organised effort to interfere with investigations related to:

• Bribery
• Corruption
• Fraud
• Misuse of public property

He stated that threatening the Inspector General of Police should be considered a threat against the broader justice system and the country’s legal framework.

According to the Minister, the IGP has already lodged a complaint with the Colombo Central Crimes Investigation Bureau, and investigations have commenced.

Statements are currently being recorded as part of the inquiry.

Concerns Over Public Incitement

The Public Security Minister expressed concerns that such statements could encourage supporters to engage in unlawful actions.

He described the remarks as serious and inappropriate, particularly when made by senior representatives of a recognised political party.

Wijepala further alleged that comments made by senior SLPP figures, including Namal Rajapaksa, had reinforced the issue through statements made under parliamentary privilege.

Government Vows Continued Legal Action

The Minister said the government would not hesitate to take action against individuals attempting to:

• Incite public unrest
• Obstruct state officials performing their duties
• Threaten law enforcement officers

He maintained that protecting public order and ensuring independent investigations remain key responsibilities of the government.

Previous Investigations Were Allegedly Disrupted

During the interview, attention was also drawn to concerns over previous investigations that were reportedly delayed, halted or discontinued.

Wijepala claimed that in past years, political influence had affected investigative processes and prevented certain cases from progressing.

He stated that public dissatisfaction with previous accountability mechanisms was among the reasons voters supported the current administration.

Commitment to Accountability

The Minister said the government’s mandate is based on public expectations for greater accountability, transparency and enforcement of the rule of law.

He added that investigations into corruption, misuse of public resources and other allegations will continue without interruption.

Wijepala emphasized that restoring justice, fairness and public confidence in state institutions remains a key objective of the current administration.

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