Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has expressed regret over Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala calling his driver a “donkey.”

Speaking at the Cabinet press briefing held today (20), Jayatissa responded to a journalist’s question regarding the deputy minister’s remark. The journalist inquired whether Watagala had used the term due to the driver’s lack of experience or if it reflected a broader issue of failing to address such concerns within the government.

In response, Jayatissa acknowledged the incident and said that he regretted the deputy minister’s choice of words, even if it was made in a moment of stress or frustration.

Deputy Minister Watagala, who visited the Hulftsdorp Court Complex yesterday (19) following the assassination of Ganemulla Sanjeewa, faced a tense situation as reporters surrounded him with questions. While attempting to leave the scene, he was caught on video speaking to his driver over the phone, saying, “Where are you, donkey?” (Koheda buruwo inne?).