In a recent interview, former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga opened up about her financial difficulties since leaving office. She revealed that when she retired, she had no money in her bank account and was even in overdraft. Currently, she is surviving by selling pieces of land.
Kumaratunga expressed her frustration with the lack of support from the government, stating that she receives no pension and did not receive any financial assistance during the nine years of Mahinda Rajapaksa’s presidency. She emphasized her independence, saying, “We didn’t eat from anyone. We only gave what we had to others.”
Despite having four vehicles, she noted the challenges of managing her expenses, including electricity bills, without governmental aid. Her candid remarks shed light on the struggles faced by some former leaders in Sri Lanka and highlight the broader issues of financial security for those in public service.
