(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) – Former Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has been named as the Presidential candidate of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) by the party leader Mahinda Rajapaksa.
Former president and Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa, who officially took over the party leadership yesterday, announced that his brother will contest as the next Presidential candidate of the SLPP.
The first national convention of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna was held at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium in Colombo yesterday (11th).
At the commencement of the party’s maiden convention founder of SLPP, Prof. G.L. Peiris ceremoniously handed over the leadership of the SLPP to Mahinda Rajapaksa.
Speaking at the occasion, former president said a leader who prioritizes the country is needed for the country’s growth and national security must be ensured in order to develop a country.
The SLPP leader said the party will develop the country after establishing national security and ensuring law and order.
Addressing the gathering Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, who is in the process of denouncing his U.S. citizenship, said during his tenure as defense secretary, he has never allowed room for any foreign forces to interfere and he will do so in the future as well to protect the country’s sovereignty.
“I have a vision for the future of my country. I never bowed my head to anyone who opposed my country. I will never allow anyone to infringe upon the sovereignty of Sri Lanka.”
“Security is of foremost importance in a country. I assure you the safety of your children. I will not let extremism lift its head in the country. I pledge to create a safe and secure environment in which all Sri Lankans, irrespective of their race or religion will be able to live in peace,” he said.
