Former President laments current leaders’ obsession with vengeance

March 11, 2015, 11:17 pm 

Text and Pix by S. Weeraratne, Polpitigama Corr

(L) Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa waving at SLFP supporters. (R) A section of the large crowd

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that he hoped bodhi poojas and other such religious activities would help make the present day rulers compassionate towards one and all.

Addressing the public who attended a bodhi pooja organised by former minister and SLFP Yapahuwa Chief Organiser T. B. Ekanayake on Monday, the former President reaffirmed his dedication to safeguarding the aspirations of Sri Lankans, especially the 5.8 million people who had voted for him at the last presidential election.

"The present day rulers are apparently being driven by hatred.

They are attacking and harassing our supporters.

Former President Rajapaksa thanked those who had invited him to attend the bodhi pooja.

The members of Maha Sangha led by Chief Adhikarana Sanghanayake of the Wayamba Province Ven Rekawa Jinaratana Thera, Chief Incumbent of the Sunethradevi Pirivena Ven Medagoda Abhayatissa Thera, Chief Incumbent of the historic Yapahuwa Raja Maha Vihara Ven Meegammana Sirirathana Thera were present on the occasion.