UNP seeks protection for Akila Viraj Kariyawasam following prison violence

09-Aug-2026

.

The United National Party (UNP) has written to prison authorities requesting protection for its Senior Deputy Leader and former minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, who is currently in remand custody, following the recent violence at Magazine Prison.

In a letter addressed by UNP General Secretary Talatha Atukorale to the Acting Commissioner General of Prisons, the party stressed that prison authorities have a responsibility to ensure the safety of Kariyawasam, who has been remanded until August 18.

The party expressed concern that the former minister’s safety could be at risk following the killing of a prisoner during the violence at Magazine Prison on the night of August 6.

The UNP also requested that an urgent meeting be arranged between party leader Vajira Abeywardena and prison officials to discuss several matters.

Kariyawasam, a former senior adviser to the former President, was arrested and remanded at Magazine Prison over allegations of corruption in connection with an alleged financial loss caused to the State during his tenure.