International

Fonseka Appears in Military Trial, Supporters Protest

Former chief of Sri Lankan defence forces General Sarath Fonseka appeared in a military trial in Columbo as thousands of his supporters protested outside, said media reports.

Fonseka is accused of mixing politics with his military career.

According to report, the court at the navy headquarters adjourned Fonseka’s court-martial till next month after his counsel challenged the legitimacy of the court and opposed the choice of member of the military tribunal, reports said.

Fonseka was taken into custody last month after he lost presidential elections to the incumbent Mahinda Rajapakse, said reports.

Officials accuse him of plotting a coup against the government and of planning to assassinate Rajapakse.

However, Fonseka alleged that charges against him are politically inspired and designed to prevent him from contesting next month’s parliamentary elections.

He was in charge of the Sri Lankan military during its defeat of the Tamil Tigers last year, but has since fallen out with Rajapakse over who should take credit for the win.

Fonseka’s trial is being held under tight security with the media barred from proceedings.

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