• Takes offence with alleged withdrawal of indictments 

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People's Power (NPP) of the Parliamentary Opposition expressed its intention to take legal action against Attorney General (AG), President's Counsel Sanjay Rajaratnam, for alleged misconduct during his tenure, irrespective of whether Rajaratnam remains in office.

The remarks from the NPP come at a time when President Ranil Wickremesinghe is reportedly considering resubmitting a proposal to extend Rajaratnam’s tenure, a proposal previously rejected by the Constitutional Council.

Addressing a meeting, NPP Executive Committee member Wasantha Samarasinghe accused Rajaratnam of alleged partiality and an alleged breach of duty, citing the purported withdrawal of indictments in 29 high profile cases, and his alleged endorsement of the President's attempts to undermine democracy. 

“This AG has withdrawn indictments in numerous high profile cases, raising serious questions about his impartiality. In one instance, he withdrew the indictment against Parliamentarian Mahindananda Aluthgamage without even notifying me, despite my involvement in filing the case,” Samarasinghe claimed. Samarasinghe further alleged that Rajaratnam is the sole supporter of President Ranil Wickremesinghe's efforts to postpone elections and extend his term of office. “The AG’s actions have repeatedly favoured the current administration, undermining the principles of justice and transparency,” he further alleged. The NPP also expressed opposition to any service extension, emphasising the need for accountability. “We are planning to take legal action against Rajaratnam for his misconduct, even if he leaves office. The rule of law must be upheld, and those who undermine it must be held accountable,” he claimed further. 

Attempts to contact the AG and the AG’s Department were to no avail.