Court Grants Bail to Ex-Minister Accused of Misusing Seed Funds

COLOMBO (News 1st); Former Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Special Projects, S.M. Chandrasena, was released on bail today (1) by Colombo Chief Magistrate Tanuja Lakmali Jayatunga, in connection with a high-profile corruption investigation.

Chandrasena was granted bail under strict conditions, including a cash bail of Rs. 50,000 and two sureties of Rs. 5 million each. 

The court also imposed a foreign travel ban and ordered the surrender of his passport.

The case is based on allegations that Chandrasena, in 2014, used his political influence to distribute government-funded seeds—worth Rs. 25 million—to his political allies in the Anuradhapura District, allegedly to gain electoral advantage ahead of the 2015 Presidential Election. The distribution was reportedly carried out by pressuring officials at the District Secretariat.

The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) arrested Chandrasena on July 4, citing financial loss to the state and abuse of public resources.

During today’s hearing, investigators informed the court that preliminary inquiries have been completed, and requested appropriate judicial orders. 

After reviewing the case, the Chief Magistrate approved bail and scheduled the next hearing for January 9.