The Presidential Secretariat has refuted media reports that the security of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa has been reduced and added that it has provided him with the benefits outlined in the Presidents’ Entitlements Act No. 4 of 1986.
Former President Rajapaksa is entitled to a pension due to a retired President, an official residence at Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7, and a Secretary’s allowance.
He has been provided with three vehicles: a Mercedes Benz -600 Maybatch (2008), a Toyota Land Cruiser (2017) and a Mercedes Benz – G63 AMG 4×4 (2013). A monthly fuel allowance of 1,950 litres is provided, along with three designated drivers for these vehicles.
The Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Public Security are providing security for former President Rajapaksa.
The Army personnel assigned include three Commando officers, four unit officers, and 56 other ranks, bringing the total number of Army personnel to seven officers and 56 ranks.
In addition to the Military, 180 police officers are also on duty to ensure his safety, which includes 29 police drivers.
A Cabinet sub-committee has been set up to evaluate the privileges of former Presidents, and future decisions and actions will be taken based on the committee’s recommendations.
