Gen. Fonseka announces bid for president under ‘swan’ symbol
Retired Gen. Sarath Fonseka, at a media briefing in Colombo today (Nov. 29), formally announced that he would run for president at elections early next year under the ‘Swan’ symbol. Presenting his policies before a packed audience of journalists, Gen. Fonseka said he would differentiate between the good and the bad just like “a swan separates milk from the water.”
The former Army commander, who retired as chief of defence staff last month ago said he would contest the January 26 polls under a newly registered political party.
He said he would keep the promises he was giving today, as he did while leading the Army to defeat the LTTE. Gen. Fonseka reiterated that he would seek a mandate to abolish the executive presidency within six months, establish the constitutional council, implement the 17th amendment and ensure good governance.
“I will win,” he said confidently, adding that he was coming forward to save the country from dictatorship.Speaking further, he acknowledged the political leadership played a key role in the victory against terrorism.
Rejecting claims his son-in-law was involved in underhand dealings in military procurements, Gen. Fonseka said he was not against a war crimes investigation, adding that the charges should be backed by evidence.
