White van press conference case against Rajitha fixed for trial

• Indictments filed against Rajitha Senaratne and Rumi Mohammed under fourteen counts

By Lakmal Sooriyagoda  

The case filed against former Health Minister Rajitha Senaratne and former State Pharmaceuticals Corporation (SPC) Chairman Rumi Mohammed in connection with the controversial White Van Press Conference during the 2019-Presidential Election was yesterday fixed for trial by Colombo High Court.  High Court Judge Damith Thotawatte fixed the case for trial to be taken up on March 15. The prosecution witnesses number one to fifth were noticed to appear before Court next trial date.  

The Attorney General had filed indictments consisting of fourteen counts against two accused in connection with organising the white van press conference on November 10, 2019, ahead of the Presidential election.  

The indictments had been filed against Rajitha Senaratne and Rumi Mohammed under fourteen counts including giving false statements about the personal character of SLPP Presidential Candidate Gotabaya Rajapaksa.  
Sakalavalli Arachchige Sarath Kumara and Watareka Gamage Athula Sanjeewa Madanayake who were present at the controversial press conference had been named as the witnesses in the case.