The Kurunegala Deputy Mayor M. Ashardeen Moinudeen, who was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) over an alleged bribery incident linked to a municipal tender, has been remanded until May 21 by the Hulftsdorp Magistrate’s Court.

Moinudeen, a member of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) headed by MP Rishad Bathuideen, had been elected Deputy Mayor with the support of the ruling National People’s Power (NPP) in forming the Kurunegala Municipal Council.

Following his arrest, the ACMC announced the immediate suspension of his party membership pending the outcome of investigations and any subsequent legal proceedings.

In a statement issued by ACMC Director of Legal and Constitutional Affairs Rushdie Habeeb, the party said it maintains a “strict zero-tolerance policy” against corruption and any conduct that undermines public confidence and accountability in public office.

The party stressed that the alleged actions were of a personal nature and did not reflect the values, principles, or official position of the ACMC.

“The suspension will remain in effect until the conclusion of the ongoing investigations and any ensuing legal proceedings,” the statement noted.

The ACMC also stated that it would continue to monitor developments closely and take any further action required under the party’s constitution and disciplinary procedures. (