An investigation into former President Ranil Wickremesinghe's September 2023 visit to the United Kingdom, which allegedly cost the state Rs. 16.6 million, has been completed by authorities. However, indictments remain pending as the Attorney General's Department reviews the case.
The Criminal Investigation Department has finished its inquiry into allegations that former President Ranil Wickremesinghe undertook a private overseas visit at public expense while in office. According to records published by the United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, no official state visit by Wickremesinghe to the UK occurred during the relevant period in September 2023, contradicting claims by his legal team that the trip was an official engagement.
Wickremesinghe and his then-Secretary Saman Ekanayake were released on bail following the investigation, which determined that approximately Rs. 16.6 million in public funds were allocated for the trip. When the case appeared before the Fort Magistrate's Court on April 29, 2026, the presiding magistrate noted sufficient evidence existed and urged authorities to proceed with indictments without further delay. By July 8, the CID informed the court that investigations had concluded and relevant materials were forwarded to the Attorney General's Department.
The matter now rests with the Attorney General's Department, which stated to reporters that materials are currently under review and further action will be taken expeditiously. However, activist groups and legal commentators have questioned the extended delay. Attorney Manoj Nanayakkara claimed that investigators and additional solicitors general had recommended proceeding with indictments and a Trial-at-Bar before a three-judge bench, yet no such action has materialized. Nanayakkara alleged the file has remained with the Attorney General's Department for several months without advancement.
Cabinet officials attributed delays to broader resource constraints within the Attorney General's Department rather than case-specific issues. Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalin Jayatissa stated that reforms are being implemented to address staffing shortages and improve facilities, acknowledging that delays in obtaining Attorney General reports have affected legal proceedings across multiple cases. The Fort Magistrate has scheduled the next hearing for September 30, when the Attorney General's position is expected to be communicated to the court.
