Ranil Wickremesinghe Arrested and Hospitalized: Key Events in Sri Lanka, August 22–24, 2025

On August 22, 2025, former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on charges of misusing public funds. This move is part of the current President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign aimed at ensuring political and financial transparency. Wickremesinghe allegedly misused state funds during his 2023 trip to London, which followed an official visit to the United States, to attend his wife’s honorary graduation ceremony at the University of Wolverhampton. The misuse of government resources for this trip has been under investigation, and the evidence collected will be presented in court.

The Financial Crimes Investigation Department (FCID) launched a detailed investigation into the matter. Three of Wickremesinghe’s close aides were summoned for questioning, and several financial documents, transaction records, and official expenditure reports were collected. These records reportedly indicate clear signs of misuse of public funds. According to police and court sources, the evidence is substantial and will be presented during legal proceedings to ensure a transparent case.

Following his arrest, on August 23, 2025, Wickremesinghe’s health deteriorated, and he was admitted to the Colombo National Hospital emergency ward. He was later transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to complications related to dehydration, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Medical teams continue to monitor his condition closely, which is now reported to be stable.

The arrest sparked political reactions both locally and internationally. Indian Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticized the charges as “trivial” and urged the Sri Lankan government to avoid using the legal system for political revenge. He emphasized the importance of treating the former president with dignity, warning that politically motivated actions could destabilize the country.

This incident has drawn significant attention in Sri Lanka, highlighting the government’s determination to tackle corruption at the highest levels. Investigations remain ongoing, and the evidence collected will play a pivotal role in clarifying the nature of the allegations against the former president. Analysts view the arrest as an essential step toward promoting accountability and transparency, while critics suggest it could be interpreted as a show of political power.

In conclusion, Ranil Wickremesinghe’s arrest and subsequent hospitalization mark a significant turning point in Sri Lanka’s political and legal landscape. The case reflects the government’s strong stance against corruption and underscores the ongoing debates surrounding political accountability. The forthcoming legal proceedings and review of evidence will determine the full extent of wrongdoing and may shape Sri Lanka’s approach to governance and transparency in the years ahead.