The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is investigating whether in 2023 the then President Ranil Wickremesinghe received an invitation from the University of Wolverhampton to attend an event where the former first lady received an honorary professorship in recognition of her extensive research, training and policy work on gender equity and equality. A team of CID officers has recorded statements from three former members of the Sri Lankan High Commission in London.
They are Saroja Sirisena, Aruna Fernando and Krishantha Subasinghe. They have stayed in the UK despite the conclusion of their diplomatic assignments.
The CID also recorded a statement from Manori Mallikarachchi, who served as the Deputy HC at the time Saroja Sirisena functioned as the mission head. Mallikarachchi is the Deputy HC.
The CID is conducting an investigation into Rs 16.6 mn spent on Wickremesinghe’s visit.
By Sujeeva Nivunhella in London