• Says Sirisena had prior knowledge of Easter Sunday attacks

By Yohan Perera

Former Minister Ravi Karunanayake who came up with fresh allegations against former President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday called the latter for a public debate and challenged him to prove that the allegations are wrong.

Mr. Karunanayake told a press conference that the former President had ordered to provide a liquor licence to a bar in Tamankaduwa after stopping the issuance of liquor licences to others. This happened in June 2015,” he said.

“Tax waivers worth Rs 2.6 billion were given to two companies engaged in steel businesses during his time. Also, contracts were given for solar power projects worth Rs 3 billion without calling for tenders. In addition, he had prior knowledge of the Easter Sunday attacks,” Mr. Karunanayake said.

“I have four files which contain details on Mr. Sirisena and I challenge him to come for a public debate with me and prove his innocence without coming up with false allegations against the others,” he said.

“Mr. Sirisena became the President through UNP votes in 2015,” he also said.

• I have four files which contain details on Mr. Sirisena and I challenge him to come for a public debate with me and prove his innocence without coming up with false allegations against the others