Today: The second court martial to hear charges against Sarath Fonseka

The former Army Chief Sarath Fonseka will be facing the second court martial proceedings today at the special tribunal set up at the Navy Headquarters today.

The second Court Martial is expected to hear charges regarding the contravention of procedures, related to military procurements.

Even this Courts Martial is to be presided over by Major General H.L Weerathunga and served by Major General A.L.R Wijethunga, Major General D.R.A.B Jayathilake and Rear Admiral W.W.J.S Fernando (Judge Advocate).

Yesterday, Sarath Fonseka appeared before the Court Martial with his lawyers, headed by Rienzi Arsakularathne, President’s Counsel.

For the prosecution side, representatives of the Attorney General’s Department appeared.

The first Court Martial, appointed to try General Sarath Fonseka on charges against his participation in political work while in active service, was held yesterday morning at the Navy Headquarters.

The first Court Martial was also presided over by Major General H.L Weerathunga, who took up three charges separately under the above category in accordance with provisions in the Army Act during hearings.

The Court Martial is to resume its sittings on 6th April 2010.

The second Court Martial, expected to hear charges regarding the contravention of procedures, related to military procurements, is to sit today.

Both Courts Martial are presided by Major General H.L Weerathunga and served by Major General A.L.R Wijethunga, Major General D.R.A.B Jayathilake and Rear Admiral W.W.J.S Fernando (Judge Advocate).

These two Courts Martial are to hear charges only pertaining to his offences committed allegedly during his military career.

Earlier Sarath Fonseka was arrested by Military Police on 8th February 2010. In accordance with military procedures summary of evidence recorded by Major General Daya Rathnayaka, Chief of Staff continued from 13th February until 6th March 2010. Following the conclusion of the recording after obtaining evidence from 35 individuals, inclusive of 22 Army personnel, 7 Police Officers and 6 civilians, the Report was subsequently submitted to the Commander of the Army during the weekend.

- Asian Tribune -