By

Gajaba

During a meeting with some of his close associates this week, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa claimed there was an organised attempt via social media and some mainstream media organisations to foster a view that there was a split within the ranks of the Rajapaksa family.

The main thrust of this operation was being conducted through social media, the President said. “They are saying that the PM and I both oppose Basil entering Parliament. They are trying to spread this story to gain political advantage for the Opposition. The people of this country know the truth. They know that whatever some may say, the Rajapaksa brothers take decisions together and work together.”

“How can I oppose Basil entering Parliament? I’m the one who asked him to enter Parliament. This is all happening with the knowledge and consent of the Prime Minister and myself,” the President added.

Meanwhile, Basil Rajapaksa himself is still undergoing quarantine at home. His quarantine is due to end on Tuesday. Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga is also one of those at the forefront of the mission to bring him to Parliament.

While on a visit to Batticaloa this week, Mr. Ranatunga phoned Basil Rajapaksa at his home to inquire how he was. Mr. Ranatunga informed the SLPP founder that he had drawn up a plan to obtain the views of the SLPP’s “bala mandala” (party branch) in the Gampaha District. “Obtain views on what?” Basil Rajapaksa asked, to which Prasanna Ranatunga said it was on him entering Parliament.

“Are you going to do that from Batticaloa?” an amused Basil Rajapaksa asked. “Wherever we might be, we have made arrangements to get it done,” the minister replied.

Courtesy:Sunday Times