Fonseka court martial on March 16 at Navy HQ
Mar 11, 2010
On recommendations of the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, His Excellency, the President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has appointed two Courts Martial to try former Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army General Sarath Fonseka, now in military custody, so said Military Spokesman Major General Prasad Samarasinghe at a special media briefing, held at Media Centre for National Security (MCNS) Thursday (11) afternoon.

Charges under two major categories, i.e. (1) participation in political work while in active service and (2) contravention of laid down procedures, related to military procurement are to be taken up separately for hearing before the two Courts Martial.

Three charges under category (1) and four charges under category (2) in accordance with provisions in the Army Act are to be heard before those two Courts Martial, presided by Major General H.L Weerathunga. Major General A.L.R Wijethunga and Major General D.R.A.B Jayathilaka are the other two members appointed to two Courts Martial. Rear Admiral W.W.J.S Fernando serves as Judge Advocate. Two Courts Martial will bring charges against him on 16th and 17th instant when they sit at Navy Headquarters, he added.

General Sarath Fonseka was arrested by Military Police on 8th February 2010. In accordance with military procedures summary of evidence, recorded by Major General Daya Rathnayaka, Chief of Staff continued from 13th February until 6th March 2010. Following conclusion of the recording after obtaining evidence from 35 individuals, inclusive of 22 Army personnel, 7 Police Officers and 6 civilians, the Report was subsequently submitted to the Commander of the Army during the weekend.

Audio Clip from SLBC:

Courtesy: defence.lk