Charges framed against General Sarath Fonseka:

Courts Martial begin March 16 and 17

*One probes political activities while in service

*Other probes procurement offences

Shirley WIJESINGHE

Commander-in-Chief President Mahinda Rajapaksa has appointed two Courts Martial to inquire into charges against former Army Commander and Chief of Defence Staff Sarath Fonseka.

This was done on the recommendations of Army Commander Lt. Gen. Jagath Jayasuriya, Military Spokesman Major General Prasad Samarasinghe told the media yesterday. Each Court Martial will commence at the Navy Headquarters on March 16 and 17.

The same panel of Judges will preside at both Courts Martial. They are Major General H.L.Weeratunga (President), A.L.R. Wijetunga, and D.B.R.B. Jayathilake. Rear Admiral W.W.J. H. Fernando will act as Judge Advocate of the panel.

Seven offences under the Army Act will be inquired into by the two Courts Martial under two categories. One category will comprise three offences and the other four. One charge is procurement of arms in violation of the law on procurement.

This will fall under the second category. Fonseka ‘s political involvement while in the service of the Army comes under the other category. The procurement charge will be investigated under the provision 109-E of the Army Act.

The other category will be probed under provisions 124 and 102-1, Major General Samarasinghe said.

The same charge sheet will be submitted to both Courts Martial, the Major General added.

He said that the charge sheet has been already submitted to General Fonseka. Sarath Fonseka will be allowed to retain a lawyer to defend himself. No permission will be given to the media to cover the Courts Martial in keeping with Army tradition. General Sarath Fonseka was arrested by Military Police on February 8. In accordance with military procedures summary of evidence, recorded by Major General Daya Rathnayaka, Chief of Staff continued from February 13 until March 6. Following conclusion of the recording after obtaining evidence from 35 individuals, inclusive of 22 Army personnel, seven Police Officers and six civilians, the Report was subsequently submitted to the Army Commander during the weekend.