Fonseka appears before Court Martial

Refuses to accept authority of Court:

The first Court Martial, appointed to try General Sarath Fonseka on charges against his participation in political work while in active service commenced its sittings as scheduled at 9.30 a.m. yesterday morning at Navy Headquarters.

The Court Martial, presided by Major General H.L Weeratunga took up three charges separately under the above category in accordance with provisions in the Army Act during hearings.

General Sarath Fonseka who appeared before the Court Martial refused to answer when the charges were read out to him by the President.He also refused to accept the judicial power of the Court Martial. Rienzie Arsekularatne PC appearing for General Sarath Fonseka begged to make two preliminary objections on behalf of the Defence.

The first objection was about the composition of the Courts Martial.

The Courts Martial examined the objections one by one according to the provisions of the Army Act and rejected them.

Defence Counsel Arsekularatne PC requested time for him to file objections to the judicial power of the Courts Martial. Deputy Solicitor General Buvaneka Aluvihare appearing for the prosecution requested the Courts Martial to give any decision that is deemed suitable by the Court.

The hearing was then postponed to April 6, 2010 and the Defence was asked to file its objections on that date.

The Second Courts Martial against General Fonseka will begin today at the Navy Headquarters.

The Court Martial comprised Major General H.L Weeratunga (President), Major General A. L. R. Wijetunga and Major General D. R. A. P Jayathilake.

Rear Admiral W. W. J Fernando was the Judge Advocate General.

The second Court Martial, expected to hear charges regarding contravention of procedures, related to military procurement is to sit tomorrow (17) as announced.

Both Courts Martial are presided by Major General H.L. Weerathunga and served by Major General A.L.R. Wijethunga, Major General D.R.A.B. Jayathilake and Rear Admiral W.W.J.S. Fernando (Judge Advocate).

These two Courts Martial are to hear charges only pertaining to his offences committed allegedly during his military career.

The Court Martial is to resume its sittings on April 6, 2010.