Citing that their client is suffering from a physical ailment, Mr. Gunewardena's lawyers had requested bail on exceptional grounds for health conditions.

However, Colombo High Court judge - Padmini Ranawaka Gunatillake rejected the bail application, saying that his health condition does not come under exceptional circumstances.

Mr. Gunewardena is currently held in remand custody over charges of allegedly misusing 22 vehicles belonging to the Presidential Secretariat.