Court Martial on Fonseka - verdict upheld

The convening officer of the Court Martial, President Mahinda Rajapaksa, as the Confirming Authority yesterday confirmed that the accused, Rtd. General G.S.C. Fonseka be cashiered from the Sri Lanka Army as recommended by the tribunal that probed the accused’s involvement in politics on three separate charges.

In accordance with the provisions in the Army Act under Section (124), the accused was charged on one count and under Section (102) on two counts, (1) Traitorous / Disloyal Word and (2). Neglect to obey garrison or other orders (two counts).

The tribunal comprised Major General H.L. Weerathunga, (President), Major General A.L.R. Wijethunga and Major General D.R.A.B. Jayathilaka. Rear Admiral W.W.J.S. Fernando served as Judge Advocate. The prosecution led evidence of four witnesses including Minister Jonston Fernando, Gamini Abeyrathna, parliamentarian Luxman Seneviratne and Major General A.W.J.C. De Silva. Rienzie Arsacularatne was the Defence Counsel for Sarath Fonseka.

The Court Martial - 1 probing charges against Fonseka under three separate charges commenced its sittings on March 16 in accordance with the provisions in the Army Act.