Mahindananda Gets 20 Years, Nalin Fernando 25 in Rs 53M Fraud Case

 

Former Minister and Sathosa Chairman Jailed Over Carrom Board Scam

High Court Delivers Landmark Judgment

In a major blow to political impunity, the High Court Trial-at-Bar on Thursday sentenced former Sports Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage to 20 years and former Sathosa Chairman Nalin Fernando to 25 years of rigorous imprisonment. The two were convicted in a high-profile corruption case involving the misuse of public funds during the 2015 Presidential Election.

Board Game Scheme Turns into Financial Scandal

The case centered on the procurement of 14,000 carrom boards and 11,000 checkers boards under the guise of supporting sports clubs. Prosecutors revealed that these purchases, made through Sathosa, were aimed at influencing voters ahead of the election and caused a state loss of Rs 53 million.

Bribery Commission: A Victory for Accountability

The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption led the case, arguing that both officials abused their positions to authorize unnecessary purchases for political gain. Following the verdict, the Commission stated the sentence sends a strong warning to public officials misusing state resources.

Heavier Sentence for Fernando’s Central Role

While both men were found guilty, Nalin Fernando received a 25-year term—five years longer than Aluthgamage—due to his direct role in executing the purchase as then-chairman of Sathosa. Fernando later served as Minister of Trade, further amplifying the gravity of the misconduct.

Public Funds, Personal Agendas

The court condemned the use of public money for personal or political advantage, stating that public trust was broken. Judges emphasized that such actions erode the fabric of governance and must be punished with the full force of the law.

Reactions: Applause, Shock, and Reflection

The ruling drew immediate attention. Legal experts, civil society organizations, and citizens welcomed the judgment as a long-overdue step toward cleaning up Maladewa’s political system. Social media platforms buzzed with the sentiment: “Justice served, finally.”

A Harsh Sentence, a Clear Signal

With Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Nalin Fernando now facing long prison terms, the court has made its stance clear: corruption—no matter how small or politically motivated—will not be tolerated. The verdict marks a defining moment in Maladewa’s legal and political history.