District Court Issues Enjoining Order Against Wimal Weerawansa in Case Filed by Hayleys PLC
The District Court of Kaduwela has issued an enjoining order against former Member of Parliament Wimal Weerawansa, following a legal application filed by Hayleys PLC over alleged defamatory statements made against the company.
In its plaint, Hayleys PLC—one of Sri Lanka’s largest conglomerates—stated that it holds a strong domestic and international reputation, with a board comprising respected professionals. The company further noted its widespread recognition in Sri Lanka and operations across multiple sectors, including automobiles, power, agriculture, logistics, renewable energy, and retail.
The plaintiff alleged that the defendant made multiple statements on four separate occasions during February, April, and May 2026 through social media platforms and a private television programme. These statements allegedly referred directly or indirectly to Hayleys PLC and its subsidiaries, including Kingsbury PLC, its automotive division, Jetstar agency, logistics arm, renewable energy businesses, and Hayleys Retail, in a defamatory, untruthful, and damaging manner.
Hayleys PLC further claimed that despite receiving a letter of demand dated around 25 May 2026, the defendant continued to make similar statements on a television programme, again allegedly identifying the company and its board members. The company argued that these actions caused serious and irreparable harm to its reputation and business interests.
In addition to seeking the enjoining order, the plaintiff has also filed a claim for cumulative damages amounting to Rs. 6 billion for alleged reputational damage.
After considering submissions and pleadings, the District Court of Kaduwela issued the enjoining order restraining Wimal Weerawansa from making, publishing, or disseminating any further statements that are defamatory, false, misleading, or harmful to the plaintiff or its associated entities.
The case has been fixed for further hearing on 23 June 2026.
Counsel Nishan Sydney Premathiratne, along with Shenali Dias and Ishara Jayakodiarachchi, appeared for the plaintiff, instructed by Chanuka Ekanayake.
