In a situation where the Mahanayakes have gained significant influence, to the extent of directly impacting government decisions, the State Secrets column is prepared to make a special revelation this time regarding a former President. The revelation concerns none other than former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
Gotabaya Rajapaksa is regarded as the first President of Sri Lanka to be ousted through a public struggle. He also made a major contribution to ending the country’s 30-year war while serving as the Defence Secretary. In addition, Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s name is most prominently associated with the beautification of Colombo.
Despite having the opportunity to build a strong legacy as President by capitalising on his role in winning the war and his achievements in urban development, Gotabaya Rajapaksa was ultimately forced to flee the country amid widespread public opposition. This situation reportedly arose due to incorrect advice given by certain individuals close to him. Following these events, Gotabaya Rajapaksa refrained from attending political events and did not issue any political statements.
According to information now being reported, Gotabaya Rajapaksa is currently spending his time with a strong focus on Buddhist philosophy. The State Secrets column has learned that he devotes most of his day to meditation. It is also reported that he has significantly reduced meetings with outsiders and is deeply studying books related to Buddhist philosophy and meditation.
In this context, it is understood that there is a possibility that Gotabaya Rajapaksa may enter the Buddhist monastic order in the later stage of his life. If this were to occur, he would most likely go down in history as the first President of Sri Lanka to become a monk.
