Colombo, January 22 – President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka has emphasized that the government’s decision to reclaim official residences from former presidents is not driven by personal animosity or revenge but is part of fulfilling the election promises made to the public. Speaking during a televised interview, he underscored the importance of introducing a new political culture in Sri Lanka, which reflects the mandate entrusted to the government by the people.
The President stated that the reforms aim to bring transparency and accountability, including the abolition of pensions for parliamentarians, the discontinuation of vehicle permits, and the cessation of providing official residences for retired presidents. He clarified that the government would assist former presidents who lack personal housing or the means to acquire a residence.
President Dissanayaka praised former President Ranil Wickremesinghe for choosing to reside in his private home rather than utilizing a government-provided residence. He also acknowledged former President Hema Premadasa and Gotabhaya Rajapaksa for vacating their official residences after public and administrative intervention. However, he noted that former Presidents Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, Maithripala Sirisena, and Mahinda Rajapaksa have yet to return their government-provided residences.
The President highlighted specific details about the properties, including Mahinda Rajapaksa’s residence in Wijerama, Colombo, which spans 30,500 square feet on one acre and 13 perches. It is valued at Rs. 3,500 million, with a monthly rental estimate of Rs. 4.6 million. Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga’s property in Torrington, Colombo, covers 15,000 square feet, with a rental value of Rs. 2 million per month. Maithripala Sirisena resides in a smaller house, with a government valuation of Rs. 900,000 per month.
President Dissanayaka explained that the Government Valuation Department would assess these properties and necessary steps would be taken to reclaim them. He asserted that these actions are part of the government’s broader commitment to political morality and transparency, not an attempt to target individuals. He assured the public that he has no intention of retaining any government-provided residence or security after his retirement, setting an example for future leaders.
“This is about fulfilling promises and implementing a new political culture, not targeting individuals. It is an essential part of our mandate,” the President said. He concluded by reiterating the significance of these measures to ensure accountability, fairness, and alignment with public expectations for governance.
