New York – (Sunday 21) - I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing away of Mr. D. B. Wijetunga, the Third Executive President of Sri Lanka, earlier yesterday. Entering politics in the pre-independence period, Mr. Wijetunga rose from small beginnings to hold the highest offices in the country.

He will be best remembered for his firm attitude against terrorism, that had been appeased by immediately precedent state policy, and the need for it to be eliminated; and, for the feeling of freedom he brought to Sri Lankan society after many years of authoritarian rule, the violence of an armed insurgency, the government’s reaction to it, and restoring faith in democracy among the people.

President Rajapaksa conveyed his deepest sympathies at demise of Mr. Wijetunga to his daughter. He has directed the government to take all action, in consultation with the family of the late Mr. Wijetunga, for funeral arrangements befitting a former Head of State and true patriot.