Minister Vijitha Herath defends Ranwala, reveals details of accident
A senior Sri Lankan government minister on Wednesday defended National People’s Power (NPP) lawmaker and former Speaker Asoka Ranwala following a Dec. 11 road accident that left a child and two others injured, rejecting allegations of political interference or intoxication.Minister Vijitha Herath told reporters that a mechanical defect, specifically a brake failure, caused the accident in Sapugaskanda. Police confirmed Tuesday that a vehicle inspection report from the Department of Motor Traffic identified a malfunction in the braking system of Ranwala’s jeep, noting the vehicle had not been properly maintained.
The accident occurred around 7:30 p.m. at the Denimulla junction. According to Herath, the vehicle first struck a young boy on a motorcycle before colliding with a car carrying a 25-year-old woman, her 55-year-old mother, and a 6-month-old infant.“MP Ranwala immediately moved the vehicle to the side to save the life of the youth on the motorcycle,” Herath said, adding that the lawmaker’s actions likely prevented a more serious tragedy.The injured infant was admitted to the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, while the two women and Ranwala were treated at the National Hospital in Colombo.
Herath strongly denied social media reports suggesting Ranwala was intoxicated or that the government influenced the investigation. While no breathalyzer test was administered at the scene—a lapse currently under internal investigation by the Inspector General of Police—Herath said blood and urine samples were taken within 24 hours.“Ranwala himself has stated that he was not intoxicated at the time accident” Herath said. “The results will be produced in court and will clearly show whether alcohol was involved. Such findings cannot be altered or concealed.”Ranwala was arrested on Dec. 12 on charges of reckless driving and failing to prevent an accident. He was later released on 200,000 rupee cash bail by the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court.Police Media Spokesperson ASP F.U. Wootler said Wednesday that authorities are still awaiting the final medical report from the Government Analyst’s Department before determining if additional charges will be filed.
The ruling NPP party has deferred any internal disciplinary action until the police investigation is complete.
