News, Picks
Mahinda appears before commission on fraud
15 Oct, 2015
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa appeared before the?Presidential Commission of Inquiry on Fraud and Corruption (PRECIFAC) today?to make a statement over allegations his party failed to pay State media during his bid for another term in office.
Rajapaksa is accused of using State media to promote his Presidential election campaign ahead of the January Presidential election, without paying the amount quoted to other candidates.
During an election, under Sri Lankan election laws, candidates are treated equally and State media is expected to give equal coverage and accept a fixed amount for advertisements promoting any candidate.
The former President and his campaign team had allegedly used State television to telecast commercials in support of Rajapaksa on credit and failed to repay the although many requests have been made by the new management.
As a result the Presidential Commission appointed by the new Government had begun inquires into the allegations.
The PRECIFAC recorded from Rajapaksa last month at his residence and summoned him today?for a public hearing.
Former Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella also appeared before the Commission in relation to the same hearing.
Recommended For You
