Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa appeared before the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) a short while ago to provide a statement regarding the ongoing investigation into the controversial 2013 Airbus procurement deal involving SriLankan Airlines.

The inquiry is focused on allegations surrounding the purchase of 14 Airbus aircraft for the national carrier, a transaction that is believed to have caused significant financial losses to the state.

The summons comes in the wake of revelations made by the late former SriLankan Airlines CEO Kapila Chandrasena, who was identified as a key suspect in the bribery investigation.

Last week, the Bribery Commission also summoned former President Rajapaksa and former Minister Priyankara Jayaratne to record their statements regarding the deal.

According to recent submissions made before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court, prosecutors alleged that Chandrasena had admitted to facilitating payments amounting to Rs. 60 million to the former President during his time in office. These payments are claimed to be part of a wider US$2 million kickback scheme linked to the Airbus transaction.

Investigators further allege that the payments were made to secure approval for the aircraft purchase agreement.

Meanwhile, a large number of party supporters gathered outside the Bribery Commission premises ahead of Rajapaksa’s arrival, while security in the area was strengthened with police and Special Task Force (STF) personnel deployed.