Saudi Supreme Court sets aside death sentence of Sri Lankan Anojan Sivarasa – Deputy FM

Sri Lanka’s Deputy Foreign Minister Arun Hemachandra has announced that the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has set aside the death sentence imposed on Sri Lankan national Anojan Sivarasa.

In a statement issued on social media, the Deputy Minister said the Saudi Supreme Court had set aside the judgment imposing the death penalty on October 13, 2026.

Hemachandra described the development as a major relief for Sivarasa, saying it followed sustained diplomatic and legal efforts by the Sri Lankan government.

The Deputy Minister expressed his appreciation to the Saudi Arabian government for its cooperation in the matter.

He also thanked Sri Lanka’s ambassador, the secretary and officials of the Foreign Ministry, the chairman and members of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment, and the Sri Lankan and Saudi legal teams for their efforts.

The announcement marks a significant development in Sivarasa’s legal case, although further details regarding his legal status and the next steps in the proceedings have not been disclosed.