Video: SF strikes note of caution

10 November 2014 11:49 am - 7 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Democratic Party Leader Sarath Fonseka struck a note of caution for the common candidate to be picked this time, literally comparing it to the act of sending one to the gallows.

Mr. Fonseka, who unsuccessfully contested the 2010 presidential election as the common candidate, said the prospective candidate should take up such a challenge with care.

"I can tell it with my past experience as the common candidate. At the beginning, there are many surrounding you. But, nobody is with you when things go wrong. Therefore, the prospective candidate should be very careful when taking a decision in this regard. One has to languish in jail if plans go awry. One cannot rule out such a predicament given the political culture of this country," he said.

Mr. Fonseka said his party stood for the pruning of executive powers rather than abolishing it in full. He said the presidential system existed in other countries, but its powers were exercised for the good of their people.

He said his Democratic Party, as a matter of policy, would decide on its stance on the common candidate after taking into account his or her past integrity, track record and ability.

However, opposition MP Arjuna Ranatunga, who was with Mr. Fonseka initially and later fell out with him, said one should the put the country before self at this hour of need.(Kelum Bandara)

Video by Sanath Desmond

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Comments - 7

Bababoo Monday, 10 November 2014 07:24 PM

Sir, at the time you contested you were not a mature politician. You used the wrong language and threats. You should have learnt or got coached by experience politician. Even now listen to the way President Obama speaks even in defeat. He is not a great president but a good orator.

Waco Monday, 10 November 2014 08:35 PM

I agree with the General Srarath Fonseka. Parlimentry system did not work before and will never work.

Dr M.L. Najimudeen Monday, 10 November 2014 09:47 PM

I agree with Arjuna Ranathunge. All should shed their differences and unite together as a powerful force

Punny Pellow Tuesday, 11 November 2014 07:01 AM

Which COUNTRY before SELF is ARJUNA talking of? MY country or OUR country?

Suq Madique Tuesday, 11 November 2014 07:46 AM

Poor SF...once bitten twice shy??

Dammika Tuesday, 11 November 2014 08:20 AM

Totally agree with SF .... it has to change 360 degrees ... As he says there are many Presidents who rule countries. But the decisions are made on behalf of the People and the country. JRJ too created Ex. Presidency for the countries benefit. However, after his departure it was totally a different scenario whether UNP or SLFP

M F TDeen Tuesday, 11 November 2014 11:29 AM

The people of this great nation leaving all religions aside should unite together for change of the president and the system for the betterment of our country

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Video: SF strikes note of caution

Comments - 7

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