Efforts underway to guarantee release of Sri Lanka's former Army Commander

Sri Lanka's major opposition United National Party (UNP) will begin signing of a petition seeking release of former Army Commander and defeated Presidential candidate Sarath Fonseka.

The petition is to be handed over to the UN General Secretary.

The signing of the petition commences from the official residence of the Colombo Mayor today. Then it will be taken around the country to collect signatures.

UNP expects to collect one mission signatures to the petition.

The petition is organized by UNP MP Jayalath Jayawardhana.


Meanwhile, the Minister of Prison Reforms Chandrasiri Gajadheera said in parliament today that Fonseka is enjoying luxuries in prison. However he contradicted his own idea telling that all prisoners are treated alike in prison. 


Unconfirmed sources say that an effort is underway led by Fonseka-led National Democratic Alliance MP Tiran Alles to guarantee a conditional release for Fonseka. 


Meanwhile, international pressure is also indicated mounting on the government seeking his release.