Advisers to the former President deny using new vehicles

By Yohan Perera   

Former Senior Adviser to the President on Climate Change, Ruwan Wijewardene, and a number of others yesterday denied allegations that they have used government vehicles during his tenure in the advisory role to former President Ranil Wickremeinsghe. 

  “The statement is false. I never used a government vehicle, nor did I receive a salary. I only utilized the office space, nothing more,” he told the Daily Mirror.   
He further clarified that he used his personal vehicles for official duties as well.   

Former Minister John Amaratunga who was special assistant to the President said he received only the letter of appointment and did not have an office as well.   

Rosy Senanayake who was the Adviser on Provincial Council Affairs said she did receive a used car when she assumed duties as a special advisor to the President. “My vehicle was breaking down frequently. Any way I returned it two months ago as soon as presidential elections were declared” she said.   

Rajith Keerthi Tennekoon Director General Community Affairs said he too got a used car. “ I handed over the vehicle few days ago,” he said. I decided to work for the former President as he asked to join him twice. I was only given an allowance of Rs 85,000. Who works for such an amount today” he questioned while highlighting that the vehicle scam is a drama.  

Former MP Vadivel Suresh who was the Senior Adviser on estate sector tamils said he worked on a voluntary basis. “ I did not get any perks,” he said.