Former Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal was today released on bail by Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court over a private plaint filed alleging that he is responsible for the country’s crippling economic crisis. Colombo Additional Magistrate Harshana Kekunawala ordered Cabraal to be released on a surety bail of Rs.10 million.

The court further extended its order preventing former CB Governor Cabraal from leaving the country until November 24.

Meanwhile, President’s Counsel Sampath Mendis appearing for the accused raised objections, challenging the maintainability of the private plaint. The Court directed both parties to file their objections on the next hearing date.

President’s Counsel Maithri Gunaratne appeared for the petitioner.

The Court made this order pursuant to a request made by former Southern Province Governor Keerthi Tennakoon through a private plaint filed in terms of section 136(1)(a) of the Code of Criminal Procedure Act.

The petitioner alleged that Cabraal is responsible for the country’s crippling economic crisis since he took measures to pay a US$500 million sovereign bond. (Lakmal Sooriyagoda)