The Colombo High Court has ordered the release of three defendants, including former minister Johnston Fernando, who were accused of causing loss to the government by removing Sathosa employees from their duties and employing them in political activities while serving as trade minister.
Colombo High Court Judge Mr. Namal Balalle gave this decision.
The defendants, including Mr. Johnston Fernando, had raised initial objections before the court that the case filed by the Bribery Commission could not be handed over and maintained.
The judge accepted the preliminary objection and then ordered the release of Johnston Fernando, former president of S.T.A., Eraj Fernando and one of its former directors, Mohammad Zakir.