Former Presidential Aide Sugishwara Bandara Hospitalized from Prison; Remains Remanded

Sugishwara Bandara, former private secretary to ex-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has been admitted to the prison hospital due to a worsening leg condition, specifically a ruptured vein stemming from varicose veins. Bandara, who is currently on remand custody, was transferred to the hospital on Friday, October 21st. He is facing charges related to the alleged misappropriation of over Rs. 220 million in state funds and drawing salaries from two positions under the Presidential expenditure head. The Kottawa Magistrate's Court recently ordered his further remand until October 23rd, citing a lack of exceptional grounds for bail. Prison authorities have indicated his condition is not critical.