Anura’s Government is Revenge-Driven, Says Chandrika Kumaratunga

23-Sep-2025

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Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga accused President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s government of prioritizing revenge over good governance.

She revealed she had requested a two-month extension to remain in the state residence while repairs were underway in a private Colombo house she recently acquired. She said her health issues, including a hip fracture, require her to stay in a suitable residence while undergoing treatment and physiotherapy.

Reflecting on her time in office (1994–2005), she said she was allocated the Torrington House but had to spend 14 million rupees of her own money on renovations after the Rajapaksa government refused funding.

She criticized the government’s recent law curtailing privileges of former presidents, saying that in many countries—including India—former heads of state enjoy greater benefits. She also alleged JVP-linked media spread false rumors that hindered her efforts to rent a private home.

Kumaratunga lamented that she is the only surviving former president not under investigation, proving she has nothing to hide. She accused the government of ignoring corruption within its own ranks, choosing instead to focus only on arresting opponents. She warned that the education and health sectors are in crisis and must be prioritized instead of engaging in political vendettas.