Kalutara, Sri Lanka – Sagara Kariyawasam, the General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), has shared a conversation with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, shedding light on the emotional toll the politician has endured due to persistent allegations of corruption.
Kariyawasam revealed that Rajapaksa, who served as the country’s president for nearly a decade, told him, “I did not get five cents that did not belong to me.” The statement reflects Rajapaksa’s frustration over being unjustly labeled as a thief despite his long years of public service dating back to 1970.
The former president further expressed the pain of living with such accusations, noting that after dedicating his life to the nation, he now finds himself branded a thief by some of the people he worked to serve.
In response, Kariyawasam assured Rajapaksa that an investigation would soon be conducted into the “absurd allegations” surrounding him and that his name would be cleared. However, Rajapaksa reportedly questioned whether he would live long enough to see the truth come to light, underscoring the toll the allegations have taken on his health and peace of mind.
Speaking at a public meeting in Kalutara, Kariyawasam passionately denounced the practice of attacking a person’s character without justification. He condemned the political forces that, in his view, aimed to destroy the reputation of a man who had worked to end the violence and political turmoil that plagued Sri Lanka in earlier years.
Kariyawasam emphasized that nothing is more sinful than the deliberate destruction of an individual’s character, particularly when the motive is to gain political advantage. The remarks come amid growing political tensions as Sri Lanka prepares for upcoming parliamentary elections.
The conversation between Rajapaksa and Kariyawasam has stirred emotions among supporters and critics alike, highlighting the ongoing political divisions in the country. While some continue to question Rajapaksa’s legacy, others remain steadfast in their support for his leadership during tumultuous times. The allegations of corruption and political motivations behind them remain a central issue in Sri Lankan politics, and the call for justice continues to resonate with many citizens.
