Cabinet Media Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa emphasized that the government holds responsibility not only for former presidents but also for the security of all citizens.
The Minister made these remarks during the Cabinet Decisions Media Briefing today (22), in response to journalists’ questions regarding the government’s role in ensuring the security of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
Dr. Jayatissa further stated that the draft Title Act is anticipated to be amended and soon published in the Gazette, suspending certain privileges of former presidents. The Cabinet has already granted the Minister the necessary approval to proceed with this amendment.
When asked about potential security risks for Mahinda Rajapaksa if the Title Act is amended and he is not provided with the customary facilities required for diplomatic activities as a former president, the Minister clarified:
“This decision is not targeted at any individual. It is a general policy concerning current living former presidents and their families. The government’s responsibility extends beyond former presidents to encompass the safety of all citizens. Security Council discussions are ongoing, and decisions are made based on intelligence and security reports. Court rulings regarding the security of former presidents are also taken into consideration. Even Gotabaya Rajapaksa was not consulted on this matter, despite being the Secretary of Defense at the time. All these factors are carefully evaluated in implementing this policy.”
The Minister also recalled that the original bill, prepared in 1986 under President J.R. Jayewardene’s government, considered the security of retiring presidents. “That legislation clearly outlined provisions for the residence to be provided to former presidents and contingencies if such housing was unavailable. We intend to repeal that bill and introduce new legislation reflecting current considerations.”
