Sri Lanka’s Rajapaksa to stand for Prime Minister in Aug. 17 polls
Former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa said he would run for prime minister during next month’s parliamentary elections, a move that is likely to infuriate rights groups as he is accused of war crimes in a civil war.
“I accept the request to contest the election,” Rajapaksa said on Wednesday, referring to the Aug. 17 parliamentary polls when the island nation is set to choose its prime minister.
President Maithripala Sirisena, who is also the leader of Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), has rejected Rajapaksa’s demand to name him as the prime ministerial candidate in the party, which Rajapaksa led for 10 years until his election defeat this year.
Rajapaksa did not specify the party under which he would contest, but his supporters told Reuters that he would form a new coalition if Sirisena does not relent.
(Reuters)
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- China pledges stronger economic ties with Sri Lanka May 29, 2025
- 16 Police Officers-in-Charge transferred in nationwide reshuffle May 29, 2025
- Venerable Bandarawela Amithananda Thero passes away May 29, 2025
- Duminda Dissanayake remanded further until June 5, 2025 May 29, 2025
- Mahindananda jailed for 20 years, Nalin for 25 in Carrom board scandal May 29, 2025
Hmmmm! Good news. But looking at the photo, he definitely needs regular work outs to prevent having a heart attack.
Jaya Wewa!
At last, we the amude wearing common masses on Sri Lanka, see a w ay forward?. This stupid “Yahapalanaya” proposed by stupid, outdated politicians, never materialised.
Mahinda is a true leader; (he was born in the jungles; not in Colombo 7) and he can lead us to glory.
In Sept, there is a damaging report coming at the UNHCR which will no doubt, find Mahinda guilty of human rights violations. The report will also call for prosecution of the offenders, Mahinda and Gota.
What I say is “Go away white man, you go and solve the problems in the US (where poverty is at its max) and in Greece ( whose economy is collapsing) and let us help our brethren in the North and East after 30 years of terrifying life, which was supported by the Chandrika and Ranil regimes.
never before in history of any country that a human has come to the top post of the country wants to come to the second in command this is what you call power hunger he cant wait without it i fear as the teachings of the dhamma shows what happens to people who are greedy for power happen I feel sorry for this man hope he knows the meaning of THANHA JAYATHI SOKO true leaders always give way for others to take their place once they move out true leaders will help the new leader accomplish what they could not accomplish true leaders will set an example to society that they are not power hunger and true leaders specially politicians will know the meaning of it elected by the people for the people not elected by the people for themselves anyway the curse of the poor man is still on him for plundering the money on taxes on dhal and bread
Well done, dont hide, fight back. Remember you have made a few mistakes in the past. Once more ged rid of the thugs who ruined you. You will win easily.
Ranit is a Traitor, Murderer (Batalanda Case) & No one Racketeer.
Ranil is a Traitor, Murderer (Batalanda Case) & No one Racketeer.
It is good news. At last The President as a loyal son of Raja Rata has put the Country before Self. It is a BIG magnanimous sacrifice in the name of our beloved motherland, All the gods and devas will bless you and protect you from evil wishers and perethayas. You will be remembered as a Savior of the Nation.