Occupation of state-owned house: CPA moves Supreme Court against Sirisena

By Chitra Weerarathnea

The Supreme Court yesterday (15) granted leave to proceed with a Fundamental Rights Violation petition filed by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) and its Director Pakiasothy Saravanamuttu against former President Maithripala Sirisena

The petition says President Maithripala Sirisena, occupied a house in Paget Road, Colombo, while he was President, presided over Cabinet meetings there and decided to occupy the house after his retirement. There is a conflict of interests, it has said.

The petition was supported by Suren Fernando Attorney-at-Law. Faizer Mustapha, PC, appeared for Sirisena.

The Additional Solicitor General Nerin Pulle, PC appeared for the Attorney General.

Leave to proceed was granted in respect of the alleged violation of Article 12(1) of the Constitution on unreasonable treatment.

Among the respondents are the members of the former Cabinet.

The bench comprised Justice Preethi Padman Soorasena, Justice Yasantha Kodagoda and Justice Mahinda Samayawardene.

The case will be called again on March 29.