What I need is not to become first or second - Gotabaya

Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa says that a police rule currently exists in the country and that the change which was expected by the people did not take place through the incumbent government. 

Addressing an event in Colombo on Monday (6), Rajapaksa said that a question he is being asked these days is whether he will become “the second.”

He was referring to recent reports regarding ongoing talks to appoint him as the deputy leader of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP).  

“I can become the first (or) I can become the second,” he said.

“But what I need is not to become first or second. There is a certain set of policies which I believe in and respect. We should protect the sovereignty of our country, our motherland as a united country. The war heroes who safeguarded this country need to be protected.” 

“If any person comes forward to do this, I am ready to follow him,” he added.

Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations W.D.J. Seneviratne had recently stated that talks are being held with various sections to appoint Gotabaya Rajapaksa to the post of SLFP deputy leader, a move that would see him become the second in command within the party. 

However, the General Secretary of the SLFP Duminda Dissanayake has said that no such proposal has been presented regarding the matter. 

Addressing a press briefing yesterday (6), Minister Seneviratne said that the proposal will be made to the SLFP in the near future.

Meanwhile Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Rajitha Senaratne, speaking to media following the ruling party parliamentary group meeting held last night, revealed that President Maithripala Sirisena has said he has no intention to work with the Rajapaksas.