In a candid TV interview, Mahinda Rajapaksa brushed off the government’s move to evict him from his official residence, saying he’s ready for anything, even as he accused the administration of seeking revenge against anyone it fears.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, speaking after his shift from Wijerama Mawatha to Carlton House, said he remains unbothered by the government’s actions. “I never thought this government would make me and other former presidents leave our homes, but I am ready to face that. Decisions may be right for them, wrong for us, but we must accept them,” he said. Rajapaksa added that he continues to be content regardless of circumstance, stressing that challenges do not shake him.
When asked if the government is targeting the Rajapaksa family, he claimed the administration is going after anyone considered a political threat. “That is not a problem for us. My political activities are continuing. Winds may change in the future, but we remain steadfast,” he said.
On the government’s rule, Rajapaksa took a measured stance, saying it is the people who gave them power. “If they go down the wrong path, it is our duty to explain that to the people,” he noted.
Reflecting on the imprisonment of his close associates, he accused the government of locking up anyone it fears. “This is something the public must accept,” he added.
Looking back on his presidency, Rajapaksa described the end of the 30-year civil war as a collective achievement. “It was an opportunity and a fortune for me. I had a good defence secretary and three military commanders. I never thought the war would end in three years. I do not foresee another war in the future,” he said.
Rajapaksa admitted politics comes with its bruises. “Some who came to see me insulted me, others greeted me well. As political leaders, we must be able to bear such experiences. If we cannot, we should stay at home,” he remarked.
Finally, he urged politicians to act responsibly and encouraged youth to fight for their rights, but with caution. “Fight for your rights, but do not do so unnecessarily. If you provoke the government without cause, they may suppress you,” he warned.
