President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said he was not elected the President of the country to look into rice prices and dhal prices.

"I have a greater duty to do for the nation," Rajapaksa said while speaking to the press after observing an organic fertilizer manufacturing plant.

Rajapaksa said he was forced to make politically unpopular decisions — such as the ban on chemical fertilizer — for the betterment of the country."Some people ask for chemical fertiliser. They must also ask for kidneys because they make a severe impact on public health. Until the 1970s, Sri Lankans engaged in agriculture without using chemical fertiliser," he added.

"I know a person who comes from a political background will not even think of such a move. But, I am not interested in votes or elections. I am only interested in what is good for the country," the President added.