Minister Sajith Premadasa slammed former President Mahinda Rajapaksa for abandoning and betraying the people of Hambantota and contesting the election from Kurunegala District.

Speaking at an event in Weeraketiya, the town located near Rajapaksa's ancestral home in Medamulana, Premadasa recalled how he was criticized when he started politics in Hambantota. However, he did not abandon the people and remained in the district, Premadasa said.

He added that it was heartening to see his critics become political 'parachutists' and deciding to contest from another district. The Hambantota people have forced this decision upon a figure no less than a former president, Premadasa also pointed out.