In a dramatic turn of events, former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has been shifted to the Colombo prison hospital after his health deteriorated while under remand custody. According to Prison Department spokesman Jagath Weerasinghe, Wickremesinghe was admitted following complaints of fatigue and weakness caused by high blood sugar and blood pressure levels.

The 76-year-old leader, who served as both Prime Minister and President of Sri Lanka, was taken into custody last week in connection with an ongoing investigation linked to alleged misuse of authority during his tenure. His remand came amid mounting political tensions in the country, which has been battling a severe economic crisis and public discontent over governance.

Health Concerns Lead to Hospitalisation

Officials stated that during routine medical checks, doctors observed abnormal fluctuations in Wickremesinghe’s blood sugar and blood pressure levels, prompting an urgent decision to transfer him to the prison hospital facility. He is now under medical observation, and his condition is reported to be stable.

The Prison Department has assured that he is receiving necessary treatment and that medical experts are monitoring his condition closely. Family members and lawyers have requested that he be given specialised care given his age and history of health issues.

Political Repercussions

Wickremesinghe’s hospitalisation has created a new wave of debate in Sri Lanka’s political landscape. Opposition parties have raised concerns about the manner of his detention and treatment, arguing that political vendetta should not overshadow humanitarian considerations.

The Sri Lankan government, however, has defended the legal process, stating that all actions taken are in accordance with court orders and that no special privileges are being extended to the former President beyond medical care.

Background on Wickremesinghe

Ranil Wickremesinghe has been one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent political figures for decades. Having served as Prime Minister six times and President between 2022 and 2024, his leadership has been marked by both economic reforms and political controversies.

He assumed the presidency in 2022 following the mass protests that forced Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign. Wickremesinghe’s government managed to stabilise parts of the collapsing economy through an IMF bailout but was criticised for its handling of public dissent and crackdowns on protesters.

His current legal troubles stem from allegations linked to misuse of presidential powers and decisions taken during the economic emergency. While Wickremesinghe has denied any wrongdoing, the court ordered his remand pending further investigation.

Public Reactions

News of his hospitalisation has spread quickly in Colombo, with reactions mixed across the public. Supporters of Wickremesinghe have expressed concern about his health, urging that he be treated at a specialised private hospital. Critics, however, insist that he must face the law like any other citizen and that medical care in prison facilities is sufficient.

Human rights groups have also called for transparency in his treatment, demanding regular updates on his health condition to ensure that there is no neglect or political manipulation.

What Lies Ahead

As the investigation continues, Wickremesinghe’s legal and political future remains uncertain. His hospitalisation could delay hearings, but officials say the judicial process will continue as per schedule.

Political analysts believe that his case could further polarise Sri Lanka’s already tense political environment. With the economy still fragile, public trust in institutions low, and protests simmering beneath the surface, the treatment of a former President under custody will remain a sensitive national issue.

For now, the focus is on Wickremesinghe’s health as doctors at the prison hospital work to stabilise him. The coming days will determine whether he remains under medical care or is deemed fit to return to custody.

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