Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in Parliament yesterday, rejected the rumours that Regional Development Minister Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka would be appointed to a top role in the defence establishment.  

The Prime Minister, responding to questions raised by JVP MP Vijitha Herath said the Cabinet had only discussed matters relating to essential services.

“The Cabinet of Ministers suggested that a Committee is set up to ensure essential services in the country are not crippled. We are still discussing that matter. If a Committee is set up, it is possible that Minister Fonseka will be appointed a role in it,” the Premier said.

He said both the President and himself had high regard for Regional Development Minister Field Marshal Fonseka, but rejected the news that he would be appointed to an ‘overall commander’ position, in charge of the tri-forces.

“Every appointment is made in accordance to the law in this country. Under the Constitution, The President is the Commander-in-Chief – this will not change,” he said.