Former President Chandrika Kumaratunga says will not contest

Former President Chandrika Kumaratunga says she was approached by some political parties to contest as a common candidate for the next Presidential elections but so far she has decided not to accepted the invitation.

Responding to a question posed to her at an event in Colombo today, Kumaratunga said that while things can change as far as her decision on contesting is concerned, at this moment it is very unlikely.

Meanwhile, she said she got involved with the South Asia Policy and Research Institute (SAPRI) to call for inter faith dialogue when places of worship were attacked and things were getting out of hand.

“I remained silent for a long time since I retired, because I get hammered by the Government or Government kept media saying she has no business to talk…this and that…I think I have every business because I am one of the most senior citizens in this country,” she said.

Kumaratunga said that most moderates are frightened to talk in Sri Lanka because of the atmosphere of intimidation and fear and killings.

As a result she said she got involved with SAPRI to raise a voice while keeping it non-political despite being a former President.

She noted that people hear only what the extremists say and not what the moderates say as most moderates are not heard.

Asked about a set of recommendations formulated by SAPRI to address the religious issue and if those recommendations will be accepted by the Government, Kumartunga said that she hopes the Government will be willing to meet SAPRI and discuss the issue.

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Source: Colombo Gazette