CBK’s security restored

Former President Chandrika Kumaratunga’s security has been restored after it was slashed earlier this year. A spokesman for the former President’s office said the government after reviewing the former President’s security, has decided to provide 69 security personnel.

The former President whose security was reduced to seven police officers in May following a Supreme Court ruling stating that her retirement entitlements be confined to what she was legally entitled to. However, following an appeal to restore the former President’s security, a committee was appointed to review her security and 69 security personnel have been allocated for her protection.

In addition the former President has also been allowed to retain seven vehicles issued by the President’s office. Spokesman, P Dissanayaka said he discussed the matter with Secretary to the President, Lalith Weeratunga and permission had been granted to retain the vehicles.

Earlier the President’s office wrote to the former President asking for the return of all vehicles issued to her from their office. Mr. Dissanayaka claimed that Ms. Kumaratunga had not received any instructions to vacate the residence she occupied at Independence Square. He said the location was still being occupied.

However soon after the Supreme Court ruling, Ms Kumaratunga’s belongings were removed from her Independence Square residence which was obtained while holding office. Ms. Kumaratunga is due in the country later this month.