Fonseka arrested for breach of discipline - Defence Secretary
Feb 25, 2010
The Government decided to arrest and institute action against General Sarath Fonseka as he had used his official position as the Army Commander and Chief of Defence Staff to establish connections with political parties with a view to enter politics, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said yesterday.

Taking part in an interview over the ITN TV channel yesterday Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said the Sri Lanka Army and the Indian Army had held a high record of discipline in Asia as responsible forces that did not intervene or take part in politics.

But in Fonseka’s activities during his service as Commander and CDS he had used his position to influence senior military officers to support his political activities.

He not only used his position but also used the Army Commander’s official residence to hold talks with certain political parties.

If no action was taken over his misconduct and breach of military discipline it would give the younger Army officers or even other ranks that anyone while being in the service could get involved with political activities. Therefore, Sarath Fonseka was arrested as there was clear evidence that he had used his official position and resources of the army to further his political ambition, Rajapaksa also said.

Courtesy: Daily News