The President made these remarks at a function held at the BMICH in Colombo on July 5 in connection with the 70th birthday celebration of Mrs. Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaranatunga. The function had been organized to commemorate the services rendered by the former President.

Speaking further the President said democracy within the party was well protected during Mrs. Bandaranaike’s leadership. “She was humble to listen to the ideas and views of everyone. She also admitted her mistakes and took actions to correct them” the President said.

Key note speech of this occasion was delivered by Prof. Rajive Bhragava, an Indian political theorist. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Ministers Wijeyadasa Rajapakse, Rajitha Senaratne, Arjuna Ranatunga, Mangala Samaraweera and Indian High Commissioner were also present at this occasion.