High Court to deliver the verdict on compensation on March23

February 22, 2022

The Colombo High Court today fixed for March 23 to announce its decision regarding a request made by former Western Province Governor Azath Salley, demanding compensation from three SLPP Parliamentarians upon his acquittal from a criminal case. On December 2 last year, the Colombo High Court ordered to acquit and release Azath Salley from a case filed against him over a statement he made on March 9, 2021. Three parliamentarians Mohomed Muzammil, Nimal Piyatissa and Jayananda Wellabada who made complaints against Azath Salley were noticed to appear in court by Colombo High Court for allegedly causing Salley's arrest without sufficient grounds. Azath Salley through his lawyer MaithriGunaratne PC had sought an order demandingcompensation upon his acquittal from the case filed by the Attorney General. He moved Court that compensation be awarded to his client for the loss of time, income and for his expenses in the matter in terms of section 17(2) of the Code of Criminal Procedure Act. According to section 17(2), the court can award compensation as it thinks fit to be paid by the persons who caused the arrest. However, President's Counsel ShavindraFernando appearing for the parliamentarians raised objections against this application and moved Court to reject it in limine. Mr. Fernando argued that the case against AzathSalley had been filed by Attorney General following police investigation. Taking into consideration the facts Colombo High Court Judge Amal Ranaraja fixed the matter for March 23. Salley was incarcerated for a period of eight months for allegedly committing offences come under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA)and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act in connection with the controversial statement he made on March 9, 2021.

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High Court to deliver the verdict on compensation on March23

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