Members of the Maha Sangha chanted pirith to bestow blessings to the newly elected President.  Also with the blessings of the clergy of the other religious denominations and the good wishes of  the political representatives,  members of foreign media organizations as well as the general public the President addressed the large gathering from the ‘Paththirippuwa’  constructed by the last King of Kandy Sri Wickrema Rajasinghe, keeping alive a tradition started by the Sinhala Kings.

The religious ceremony was officiated by Polonnaruwa Solosmasthanadhipathi Ven Vendaruwe Sri Upali Nayaka Thero.

The President  expressed his gratitude to those who voted for him and  he was thankful to everyone who assisted to hold a peaceful election. He said it is time for a transformation society – to bring about a humane society with good governance and respect to law.  A society that would  bid  goodbye to poverty.  He wished to form a National Unity Government where all political parties would strive towards a common good, not only to people but to animals, plants and also to environment.

The President further said that unlimited powers vested to the Executive Presidency will be transfered to Parliament, Cabinet and Judiciary.

He also said that this would be the only time that he would contest the Presidency.(KH)