Addressing the ceremony to mark the signing of the MOU between the parties of the common opposition, former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga issued a character certificate to common candidate Maithripala Sirisena saying she could assure that he would be a “good and fair” leader.

“He is no thief or murderer. He has political vision and philosophy. He will be fair by every person after coming to power,” the former President said at the Viharamahadevi open air theatre in Colombo, a short while ago.

“This is a battle,” she said,” not only to save the country; but also to save the Sri Lanka Freedom Party.” The former President also invited other seniors of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party to join hands with the common opposition in this struggle.

She added that they would form a new government which everyone can be a part of. The former President also said that the new government, which will be formed after January 08, would restore rule of law and ensure peace and justice

“If we can save the money that is being defrauded by one family we can increase the salaries of government servants without any difficulty,” Kumaratunga said.

Meanwhile, former Army Commander Sarath Fonseka, who also signed the agreement, said he would extend his support to common candidate Maithripala Sirisena at the forthcoming presidential election.

“I was happy when Maithripala Sirisena was named the Common Opposition Candidate,” Fonseka said denying speculations that he would take a different path at the presidential election.

“I will hold discussions with the common candidate and opposition leader after this meeting,” the Leader of the Democratic Party added.

Meanwhile, Convener of the People’s Movement for a Just Society, Maduluwawe Sobotha Thera, addressing the meeting, invited all parties to change the dictatorial powers of the Executive Presidency.  Referring to a statement made by President Mahinda Rajapaks, Sobhitha Thera asserted that the President should take action on “files” that are in his possession.

Thirty six political parties and groups backing common candidate Maithripala Sirisena signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Vihara Maha devi Open Air Theater.