Sri Lanka supports US sanctions on Rajapaksa family members

In Sri Lanka, the new government has expressed support for recent US sanctions imposed on two key figures from the former ruling Rajapaksa family, namely Udayanga Weeratunga and Kapila Chandrasena. These sanctions were enacted as part of the US's effort to promote accountability regarding corruption, particularly focused on two notorious graft cases associated with aircraft purchases. Former ambassador Udayanga Weeratunga, who is a cousin of both Mahinda and Gotabaya Rajapaksa, and Kapila Chandrasena, who previously headed SriLankan Airlines, are among 14 individuals penalized. These actions occurred on December 9, 2024, as part of a larger initiative to uphold integrity and transparency in governance, which has gained prominence in the wake of the Rajapaksa administration's controversial dealings during their time in power from 2005 until 2015. The sanctions specifically address allegations that Weeratunga orchestrated and benefited from corrupt schemes, particularly regarding the procurement of MiG aircraft for the Sri Lankan Air Force. Meanwhile, Chandrasena was accused of accepting bribes linked to the overpriced purchase of Airbus aircraft. Despite earlier attempts to bring legal action against both individuals, progress had been stagnant prior to the US's recent intervention. The Sri Lankan Information Minister, Nalinda Jayatissa, noted that these sanctions will act as a catalyst for re-examining past corruption cases, underscoring a commitment from the current administration to pursue justice in high-profile graft cases associated with the previous regime. The history of corruption allegations against the Rajapaksa family gained further notoriety following the tragic assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunge, an investigative journalist who exposed corrupt transactions tied to the MiG purchase scheme. His murder in January 2009 preceded vital court proceedings and has raised significant concern regarding the safety of journalists critical of political power in Sri Lanka. The renewed emphasis on accountability is seen as essential for strengthening democratic norms in the country, as public sentiment rallies against the legacies of powerful political families who have purportedly exploited their authority for personal gain. The new government's actions, alongside US sanctions, are indicative of a broader commitment to reform and transparency, following a period characterized by economic and political turmoil ending with the Rajapaksas' ousting in 2022 due to a severe economic crisis. In conclusion, the renewed investigations into longstanding graft cases, aided by international pressure, reflect a critical turning point for governance in Sri Lanka, as the public seeks restitution and integrity in leadership. The current government's responsiveness to US sanctions emphasizes their goal to restore faith in the political system while addressing corruption fostered by previous administrations.