Gota to serve all "irrespective of ethnicity", Sajith to contribute as a citizen

Newly elected President Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (Nov 17) said he would serve the country’s citizens including those who voted against him “irrespective of their ethnicity”.

“I will fulfill the trust that you placed in me,” the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna candidate stated after being declared winner of the poll. He thanked all those who had voted for him during the election.

During his brief statement, Rajapaksa pledged that he would implement his manifesto during his term in office.

“I will extend my fullest support to conduct the provincial election on time,” he promised, responding to a request made by the Election Commission Chairman to conduct the much-delayed poll.

Mr Rajapaksa beat opponent ruling party candidate Sajith Premadasa by around 1.3 million votes, becoming the seventh Executive President of the country.

Premadasa, the New Democratic Front (NDF) candidate congratulated Rajapaksa upon his victory and said he would contribute as a citizen towards establishing a prosperous country.

“I wish to express my gratitude towards those who worked hard day and night during my campaign,” he said pointing out that his intention is to serve the people.

He thanked the authorities and all officials who had contributed towards ensuring that the poll was conducted in a peaceful and fair manner.