Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa stated today (20) that his fight in the war was not for personal gain or power, but for peace.

He made this remark while participating in the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna’s (SLPP) Ranaviru Commemoration held near the National War Heroes’ Memorial in Battaramulla this morning.

Former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was also present at the ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, Mahinda Rajapaksa said his attendance was simply a matter of fulfilling his duty.

“We came here today to fulfil a responsibility. Yes, we fought a war — but it was for peace, not to capture or harm anyone. We fought to protect the country,” he said.

Reflecting further, he noted,
“What happens going forward is uncertain — that will depend on the governments to come.

War is always a tragedy. But our armed forces achieved victory. In war, only one side can prevail.

So, there’s no issue with national security — protecting the country remains a priority.”