Former chairman of Lindula Urban Council remanded

By Bhagya Silva   

Ashoka Sepala, the former Chairman of the Talawakelle-Lindula Urban Council, was ordered to be remanded till June 11 by Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali yesterday, in connection with a financial loss of Rs. 2.38 million allegedly caused to the government during his tenure as Chairman.  

According to the investigation, the suspect is accused of disregarding official procedures during the leasing of meat stall, which belongs to the Urban Council. Despite the highest bid being submitted by one party, the lease was granted to another party who had made a lower bid. This action is alleged to have been taken in violation of proper tender procedures.   

The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption arrested the suspect yesterday and presented him to the court.   

The Provincial Commissioner of Local Government had provided clear instructions throughout the tender process, from beginning to end. The suspect is alleged to have misused his authority to benefit an external party, thereby causing a significant financial loss to the government.