President urges politicians to refrain from election-oriented extremist statements

President Maithripala Sirisena has urged politicians to refrain from making extremist statements to divide the country and garner votes at the forthcoming elections.

Addressing an event in Mullaitivu on Saturday, the President cautioned that making extremist remarks would pave the way for a 'Muslim Prabhakaran' in the country.

"Several politicians are making various (extremist) remarks targetting the upcoming elections. This shouldn't be done," Mr. Sirisena said during the 'Let's unite for our country' programme in Mullaitivu.

President Sirisena pointed out that the biggest setback for the country since the Easter Sunday carnage were the divisions being created in the country.

"The terrorists who not only wanted to destroy the lives of the people, but to also divide the country, have succeeded in their motive," he lamented.

Mr. Sirisena observed that this had happened since politicians have already begun to divide the country. "The aim of the terrorists must not be fulfilled," he emphasised.