The United States has imposed sanctions on two Sri Lankans—Kapila Chandrasena, former CEO of SriLankan Airlines, and Udayanga Weeratunga, former Ambassador to Russia—under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State’s annual appropriations act. The designations were announced on International Anti-Corruption Day as part of broader efforts to hold individuals accountable for significant corruption and human rights abuses globally.
Allegations Against Chandrasena
Kapila Chandrasena has been accused of accepting bribes during his tenure as the CEO of SriLankan Airlines. According to the U.S. Department of State, Chandrasena facilitated the purchase of Airbus aircraft at inflated prices in exchange for personal financial gain. His immediate family members have also been sanctioned.
Charges Against Weeratunga
Udayanga Weeratunga, Sri Lanka’s former ambassador to Russia, is alleged to have orchestrated a corrupt scheme involving the procurement of MiG aircraft for the Sri Lankan Air Force. The U.S. government has cited his personal enrichment through this deal as the basis for his designation, which extends to his immediate family members as well.
Global Anti-Corruption Drive
These measures are part of the U.S.’s broader global anti-corruption initiative, which has imposed sanctions and visa restrictions on individuals and entities involved in corrupt practices and human rights abuses worldwide. The Department of State has publicly designated 81 individuals this year under Section 7031(c) and imposed visa restrictions on over 200 individuals for various violations, including corruption and undermining democracy.
The sanctions on Chandrasena and Weeratunga reflect the United States’ commitment to promoting accountability and upholding the principles of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption.
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