Transition of Executive Office- President Kumaratunga begins a new tradition

[November 19, 2005 - 6.30 GMT]

President Chandrika Kumaratunga had directed her Secretary, the three Armed Forces and the Police some weeks ago to formulate a novel system of ceremonials to welcome the new President.

Consequently it was planned to accord the newly elected President a ceremonial welcome with a guard of honour and a twenty-one gun salute. A farewell ceremony for the out going President and Commander-in-Chief was also devised and was due to be held after the instauration of the new President.

These plans have had to be somewhat amended as the President- Elect Mr. Mahinda Rajapakse wished to take his oaths of office, soon after he was declared elected.  In accordance with Mr. Mahinda Rakapakse's request President Kumaratunga directed the relevant authorities to arrange for the planned Ceremonial Welcome within a short period of one day.

The farewell ceremony to President Chandrika Kumaratunga and the handing over of the Presidency, along with a report of the work done during her Presidency will now be held on 23 rd November. President Kumaratunga wishes that this would create a new tradition for a smooth transition of the Presidency with dignity for all future incumbents of this office.

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Last Updated Date: November 19, 2005 - 6.30 GMT