October 04, Colombo (LNW): A bulletproof vehicle previously allocated for the protection of former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has been officially returned, following recent changes to legislation governing privileges extended to former heads of state.
According to a statement issued yesterday (03) by Rajapaksa’s media spokesperson, Attorney-at-Law Manoj Gamage, the armoured vehicle was handed back through the relevant leasing or service provider.
In addition, a secondary vehicle used by his close protection officers was also returned to the authorities.
The decision comes in the wake of the Presidents’ Entitlements (Repeal) Act, which has effectively withdrawn several benefits and official provisions previously extended to past executive presidents.
Gamage stated that the Presidential Secretariat had formally notified Rajapaksa on 24 September of the requirement to relinquish both official vehicles and the official residence still under his use.
Expressing concern over the implications of the move, Gamage remarked that the absence of adequate transport and protection infrastructure places the former President’s safety at risk.
He added that arrangements are underway to seek discussions with the Inspector General of Police, the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, and senior defence officials to explore avenues for securing alternative protective measures.
