Arrest of Former President of Sri Lanka Sparks Protests and Accusations of Corruption

• Vikremesinghe became the first former president to be arrested in Sri Lanka.
• The arrest triggered mass protests and accusations in the political aftermath.
• The government prohibits political gatherings and emphasizes anti-corruption measures.

The arrest of former Sri Lankan President Ranil Vikremesinghe, who stepped down on July 25, 2025, triggered widespread resonance in the country. Vikremesinghe, 76, became the first former head of state to be arrested in Sri Lanka. He is accused of misusing state funds amounting to nearly $59,500 for the expenses of a ceremony awarding diplomatic diplomas to friends in London after the official visit to the USA in 2023.

After the arrest, Vikremesinghe was transferred to a facility in Welikada, and later to a hospital in Colombo due to health issues. As of September 26, 2025, his condition is stable, but he remains under observation.

The arrest sparked mass protests: tens of thousands of his supporters gathered on the streets of Colombo to support the former president. They demand his release, considering the arrest a political persecution.

The government, led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, prohibits accusations in the political sphere and asserts that the investigation into corruption cases is part of their anti-corruption program. Vikremesinghe, who served as president from 2022 to 2024, received favorable reviews for stabilizing the country's economy, but his political actions have led to a backlash among the population.

Many politicians, including former presidents, expressed support for Vikremesinghe, considering his arrest an attack on democracy. They also emphasized that the worsening situation could lead to further political unrest in the country.

Tags: Politics/Crime