The United National Party (UNP) has condemned what it described as a sudden visit by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to the residence of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe (RW), where a statement was recorded from his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe.
The visit reportedly took place in Colombo earlier in the day as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged misuse of government funds during Wickremesinghe’s presidency.
UNP Chairman Wajira Abeywardena criticised the move, pointing to the former President’s current health condition. Wickremesinghe is said to be recovering from recent heart surgery, while Prof. Maithree Wickremesinghe has been overseeing his care. According to Abeywardena, access to the residence has been restricted to protect his recovery, and Prof. Wickremesinghe herself has also been unwell for some time.
He questioned whether it was appropriate for CID officers to arrive at the residence under such circumstances and called for clarification on who authorised the visit. The UNP further alleged that the timing of the action raised concerns about whether it was intended to divert public attention from criticisms directed at the government.
The party said it strongly disapproved of obtaining a statement in this manner, particularly given the reported health conditions of both individuals at the residence.
The CID visit is linked to an inquiry into allegations that public funds were used during Wickremesinghe’s tenure as President to facilitate travel to London for a university degree awarding ceremony. While details of the investigation have not been officially disclosed, the matter has drawn political attention in recent days.
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