National People’s Power (NPP) parliamentary aspirant Nilanthi Kottahachchi, who had accused the previous government of depositing stolen assets in Uganda, clarified that her statement was made in the broader context of the need to recover ill-gotten wealth hidden in Uganda and other countries.
Speaking to the media, she stated that she takes full responsibility for her comments.
“Some of my recent statements have been used to slander me. I’ve been nicknamed ‘Uganda Kumari’ or ‘Uganda Menike.’
There was a lengthy discussion regarding the misuse of public money for the presidential election, investing it abroad, and recovering the funds deposited elsewhere. As part of this broader discussion, I mentioned the need to repatriate the money deposited in Uganda.
Even as I made that statement, I was fully aware that De La Rue, a security printing company, had printed a batch of currency notes to be sent to Uganda. It was a widely discussed topic at that time. However, I understand now that it was merely a recall of currency notes printed on order.
We also know that the previous government has invested in other countries, including Uganda. We expect legislation to be introduced during our government’s tenure to recover such stolen funds. Whether it’s the NPP government or any other government, it is a legal obligation to address the misuse of public funds. I take full responsibility for my statement. Whether the money is in Uganda or elsewhere, we will take on the responsibility of handling the relevant cases,” she said.
When asked about the accusation made by former MP Namal Rajapaksa, she responded that Rajapaksa has every democratic right to challenge her statement.
“We are prepared to respond in an appropriate manner at the right time,” she said.