Malicious attempts to tarnish Defence Secretary’s image - Government

COLOMBO: The Government yesterday strongly rejected accusations levelled against Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa by certain media organisations that he had threatened an editor of a local English newspaper.

The Government regards this as a malicious attempt to tarnish the image of the Defence Secretary, a statement issued by the Media Centre for National Security stated.

The statement said the latest accusation against Defence Secretary Rajapaksa comes in the backdrop of attempts by some political elements to build a negative opinion against him following false allegations of fraud in connection with the MiG 27 deal.

“Despite the success of the humanitarian operations launched in the East under his guidance some demanded his resignation from office following the LTTE attack on the Air Force base in Katunayake.

The Government believes that the latest allegation against the Defence Secretary is part of a wide plan to remove him from office to satisfy the LTTE’s aims,” the MCNS said.

The statement added: “The Defence Secretary, a retired military officer has already proved his commitment to ensure the National Security of Sri Lanka.

Through consecutive victories achieved in the Eastern theatre of operations, Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has exhibited his professionalism and experience as the most proficient Government Official to hold the office of Secretary of Defence.

The public appreciates the invaluable service rendered by the Secretary Defence at a time when National Security of Sri Lanka is threatened by the LTTE.

The Government condemns the attempts made by certain media organisations to discredit the image of the Defence Secretary who has always acted with responsibility while maintaining a cordial relationship with media personnel.”