Former president Mahinda Rajapaksa said on Saturday (21) that even though people voted for Maithripala Sirisena, the UNP is ruling the country in reality.

He made this observation addressing a gathering at Wadduwa Vivekarama Maha Viharaya. He was the Chief Guest at the opening of a new Sanghavasaya in the temple.

Speaking further he reiterated the fact that currently he in taking a rest. While he is resting, he is understanding people better, Rajapaksa said.

Rajapaksa has repeatedly insisted on the fact that he is taking a rest from politics. However, he has not completely ruled out a return to politics. Meanwhile, a section in the United People’s Freedom Alliance is insisting on his return.