The party membership of the Deputy Mayor of the Kurunegala Municipal Council, Ashardeen Moinudeen, who was arrested on bribery charges, has been suspended with immediate effect.

In an official statement issued by Rushdie Habeeb, Director – Legal and Constitutional Affairs of ACMC, the party stated that the suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of investigations and any subsequent legal proceedings.

The ACMC emphasised that it maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against corruption and any conduct that undermines public confidence and accountability in public office.

The statement further noted that the alleged actions are of a personal nature and do not reflect the values, principles, or official position of the party, adding that ACMC will continue to monitor the matter closely and take any further action required under the party’s constitution and disciplinary procedures.

He was elected to the Kurunegala Municipal Council representing the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) and later extended his support to the National People’s Power (NPP) during the formation of the council administration. He subsequently assumed duties as the Deputy Mayor.

It is alleged that the suspect solicited a bribe in exchange for awarding tenders for the cleaning of the Kurunegala bus stand and public toilets.

The Deputy Mayor was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) yesterday (08) in the Battaramulla area while allegedly attempting to accept a bribe of Rs. 3 million.