CJ says Ms. Kumaratunga was 'corrupt' in selling the prime land

Chief Justice Sarath Silva made the observation when a petition against selling 32 acres near the parliament, in Jayawardhanapaura, Kotte, to Asia Pacific Golf company was taken for hearing.

The land was sold to the company during President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga’s tenure for Rs. 320 a perch, the court was informed.

'From socialism to capitalism'

Accusing Ms. Kumaratunga of 'pushing herself towards capitalism from socialism' CJ Sarath N Silva said the public would not vote for such corrupt politicians.

Two retired government officials, in the petition, have requested the Supreme Court to annul the deal that has caused a huge loss of Rs. millions to the state.

	The CJ was appointed by Ms. Kumaratunga despite reservations

The CJ also accused the Urban Development Authority (UDA) of supporting Ms. Kumaratunga for the ‘corrupt’ deal.

He observed that it is better to dissolve such institutions that do not serve Sri Lanka's interests.

Sarath Silva, the then Attorney General, was appointed as the CJ by Ms. Kumaratunga despite serious reservations from civil activists.

The Supreme Court was hearing two petitions filed by Ravaya editor, Victor Ivan, against Mr. Silva at the time of the appointment.