What are some specific allegations against the Mahinda Rajapaksa and Family in Sri Lanka?

[ThinkTank]

Here are some specific ones:

Human Rights Abuses:
During the final stages of the Sri Lankan civil war (2009), there were allegations of war crimes committed by the military under the Rajapaksa government. These included extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and attacks on civilians.
The government was accused of suppressing dissent, intimidating journalists, and restricting media freedom.

Corruption and Nepotism:
The Rajapaksas were criticized for nepotism, with family members holding key positions in government and business.
Allegations of corruption surrounded large infrastructure projects, including the construction of highways, ports, and airports. Critics claimed that these projects were overpriced and lacked transparency.

Economic Mismanagement:
The Rajapaksa administration borrowed heavily to fund development projects, leading to a debt crisis.
Mismanagement of state-owned enterprises and financial institutions contributed to economic instability.

Authoritarian Tendencies:
The concentration of power within the Rajapaksa family raised concerns about democratic norms.
The 18th Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution, passed during Mahinda Rajapaksa’s presidency, removed presidential term limits and strengthened executive powers.

Alleged Involvement in Criminal Activities:
While not proven, there were rumors of connections between the Rajapaksas and criminal networks.
Some critics accused them of protecting drug traffickers and underworld figures.

Remember that these allegations are based on investigations, media reports, and public perception. It’s essential to approach them critically and seek verified information.