Supreme Court allows ex-Deputy Minister to appeal bribery conviction

The Supreme Court on Thursday approved Premaratne's application for special leave to appeal against his conviction and sentence, paving the way for a higher court review of his case. The former Deputy Minister had been sentenced to four years' rigorous imprisonment after being found guilty of soliciting and accepting Rs. 50,000 as a bribe in return for promises of employment assistance.

Premaratne, who served as an organiser for the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, was brought before courts on charges related to the alleged misconduct during his tenure in public office. The approval of special leave to appeal means the former politician now has the opportunity to challenge the lower court's decision before the apex court.

The case forms part of ongoing efforts to address allegations of corruption involving public officials. The granting of special leave indicates the Supreme Court found sufficient grounds to warrant a full hearing of Premaratne's appeal against both conviction and sentencing on the bribery charges.

The appeal hearing is expected to proceed in the coming months, with the court set to examine the evidence and legal arguments presented by both the prosecution and Premaratne's legal team.