President's popularity zooms, Fonseka's statement loss of support

The controversial statement of Sarath Fonseka had resulted in supporters distancing themselves from him. This trend was noted in the patriotic forces of JVP and UNP.

Meanwhile the popularity of President Mahinda Rajapaksa is escalating with the success of Mahinda Chintana policies being implemented successfully following his brave leadership in the country.

The major proposals of the 'Mahinda Chintana' development plan of the government were successfully implemented said Public Administration and Home Affairs Minister and Deputy Minister of Finance Dr. Sarath Amunugama.Replying to the allegations of the opposition that the 'Mahinda Chintana' proposals were not implemented by the government, Dr. Amunugama said the Mahinda Rajapaksa government eliminated the 30 long years of terrorism from Sri Lanka as stated by the 'Mahinda Chintana'.

The Minister said that 600,000 youths were employed in the government service.

The number of Government servants was 600,000 in 2004 and now it had increased to 1.2 million according to the Mahinda Chintana policy framework.

The policy of the oppositions leading party the UNP was to reduce Government servants from 600,000 to 300,000 during their 2000-2004 period, he said.

Providing fertilizer to farmers at a price of Rs. 350 a bag increasing the Samurdhi benefits and the salaries and pensions of Government servants are some major steps taken by the Government according to the 'Mahinda Chintana' he said.The implementation of long awaited Hambantota Harbour and Game Naguma and Maga Naguma Road Development projects are other Mahinda Chintana proposals implemented by the Government the Minister said. (L.S.A.W)