Five Ministers resign

By Yohan Perera  
Five Ministers resigned from their portfolios yesterday after SLPP candidate Gotabaya Rajapaksa emerged victorious at Saturday’s Presidential election defeating the ruling party candidate Sajith Premadasa.  

Ministers who resigned were Harin Fernando, Mangala Samaraweera, Malik Samarawickrama , Ajith P Perera and Kabir Hashim.  

Minister Fernando said he will also resign from the positions he is holding in the UNP including the post of Media head. He said he was resigning as one has to respect the verdict given by the people.  

Non-Cabinet Minister Ajith P. Perera said he too would bow down to the will of the people “We will fight to protect the UNP and the rights of the Sri Lankan people,” he said. Mr Perera added that the country needs NDF candidate Sajith Premadasa’s leadership.  

Minister Samaraweera also said he was resigning respecting the clear verdict of the people.    The others who resigned are Malik Samarawickrama and Kabir Hashim.