Former President Maithripala Sirisena told the Presidential Commission to Investigate the Easter Attack yesterday (13) that former IGP Pujith Jayasundara was asked not to attend the National Security Council due to various criticisms leveled against him.

Former President Maithripala Sirisena testified before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the Easter attack for the second day yesterday.

During the hearing, the former President was asked if anyone was barred from attending the National Security Council during his tenure.

Responding to this, the former President said, “There was no ban. But I told the former IGP not to come because of certain behaviors. When he attended the National Security Council meetings, he was using his two mobile phones without paying any attention to the proceedings. One day after the Security Council meeting, I personally met him and asked him to pay attention Council meeting. One day, he danced while on duty at the 2018 Kandy Esala Perahera. Two days later I brought it up and asked if there were not enough dancers for Diyawadana Nilame to conduct the Perahera.

In Polonnaruwa, the Navy had organized a musical show. The IGP got on stage and sang six songs. Even a popular singer would sing only three songs and leaves the stage. When I couldn’t tolerate his behavior anymore, I left the show and then Pujith walked up to me and asked whether I liked his signing. I said his signing made me leave the musical show!” Sirisena said.