Incumbent Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa warned that he will not allow anyone to “take the country back” after victory against separatism, in his New Year’s message.
“The separatism that was defeated with great commitment and sacrifice is raising its head again in different forms,” said Rajapaksa, in a statement released on Thursday.
“All those who value national unity and the sovereignty of the country should look far ahead with single-minded determination to protect the nation.”
“I will leave no room for anyone to take the country back from the victories we have gained. The singular expectation of the people is to see such security for the nation.”
“The wish in this New Year is a commitment to work with determination and patience to safeguard the Motherland we have built, and take it further to heights of world-winning achievements. It is my wish that you will have strength and courage to make this a year of victory for the nation.”