-By A Staff Writer
(Lanka-e-News -14.July.2024, 11.45 PM) In a developing story that has the potential to shake the foundations of Sri Lankan politics, National Security Advisor Sagala Rathnayake is under scrutiny for allegedly receiving bribes from Russian entities related to the handover of Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport to a Russian firm.
The allegations stem from a series of communications between an Indian middleman and a Russian handler, obtained by an investigative journalist forum. These communications suggest that Rathnayake, a close ally of President Ranil Wickramasinghe, may have been involved in questionable financial dealings with Russian operatives.
The Indian middleman, whose identity is being protected due to an ongoing investigation by a powerful country into his involvement in ordering weapons for Russia in breach of USA sanctions, implicates Rathnayake in these transactions.
The revelations come at a sensitive time for President Wickramasinghe, who is struggling to gain momentum in his upcoming presidential campaign. Sources indicate that Rathnayake has been the primary decision-maker on significant matters, effectively sidelining the President.
Further questions arise from a meeting between Rathnayake and the Indian middleman during the "Colombo Security Conclave" in Mauritius. The purpose and content of their discussions remain unclear, prompting concerns about the transparency and propriety of their interactions.
The investigation also extends to allegations that Rathnayake approved the recruitment of Sri Lankan-trained military individuals to fight on behalf of Russia. Close associates of Rathnayake are reportedly facilitating this recruitment, raising serious national security concerns.
In addition to the bribery allegations, Rathnayake faces accusations of using his political position for personal gain. Reports suggest that he has been leveraging his influence to renovate his derelict tea plantation. Moreover, he appointed his brother, Kavan Rathnayake, to manage the largest state bank in Sri Lanka, despite Kavan’s lack of experience in the banking sector. Kavan’s background primarily involves deal-making for specific businessmen, raising further ethical questions.
Investigators are also looking into offshore accounts linked to Rathnayake in Labuan, Malaysia. These accounts are allegedly held under the name of a notorious wheeler-dealer, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.
As the investigation continues, the implications for Sri Lanka’s political and security landscape could be profound. Authorities are urged to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and hold accountable those involved in any wrongdoing.
This developing story underscores the critical need for vigilance and integrity in political and national security affairs of the Sri Lanka, as amateurs Sagala Rathnayake playing fool. The potential corruption at such high levels of government threatens to undermine public trust and international relations. The coming days will be crucial in determining the full extent of these allegations and their impact on the future of Sri Lankan politics.
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by (2024-07-14 22:46:09)
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