Colombo — The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) has alleged that the government is relying on the testimony of a “corrupt businessman” to justify the arrest of party National Organizer Namal Rajapaksa. SLPP National Organizer D.V. Chanaka made the accusation during a media briefing held at the party headquarters at Nelum Mawatha.
Chanaka claimed that businessman Nimal Perera, who has provided evidence against Rajapaksa, is facing “around 100 cases” and has repeatedly changed his statements over the years. He further alleged that Perera’s business partner is a “powerful minister” in the current government and a close associate of National People’s Power (NPP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Contradictory Testimony Alleged
According to Chanaka, Perera has given three conflicting versions of his claims:
- First claiming he paid Rs. 50 million to Namal Rajapaksa
- Later stating he did not pay a single rupee
- Then alleging he paid Rs. 100 million, without specifying dates, methods, or transaction details
Chanaka also referenced a 2019 court submission by former CID Director Shani Abeysekara, who reportedly described Perera as a witness who “changes his testimony” and is “unreliable.”
Political Motive Claimed
Chanaka accused the government of using Perera’s testimony to target political opponents and suppress dissent.
He warned that similar allegations could be directed at other MPs, including Harini Amarasuriya, depending on their stance on the proposed 22nd Amendment.
“This is a coordinated effort using corrupt businessmen and individuals who have done business with the government,” he said.
Farmers’ Protest and SLPP Mobilisation
Chanaka said the government’s failure to deliver the promised Rs. 150 paddy price has triggered widespread farmer unrest. He announced that Namal Rajapaksa will lead a major farmers’ protest on September 12, and accused the government of attempting to disrupt the rally.
“They expected Namal Rajapaksa to be afraid after being arrested. But participation has only increased,” he said, adding that the SLPP “will not step back even an inch.”
Accusations of Cover‑Ups
Chanaka further alleged that the government is attempting to suppress the opposition to divert attention from major corruption scandals, including:
- The coal procurement controversy
- The container fraud allegations
He said the SLPP and the Rajapaksa family “are not afraid of political suppression,” and urged the public to reject what he described as government “deception and media theatrics.”
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