Sri Lanka opposition challenges Mahinda Rajapaksa's corruption charges

COLOMBO: Sri Lankas's main opposition party UNP today challenged President Mahinda Rajapaksa's claim of having files of corruption details by his defectors, saying that corruption is encouraged in his administration.

Dubbing it as a blackmail threat by no less than this country's head of state, the The United National Party (UNP) said in a statement that "it indicates the darkness of his rule, his dismissive attitude towards corruption and his twisted notions of loyalty".

Angered by news of his ministers defection, the President claimed on Sunday that he had "files" on all those who quit his government, but insisted he would not use them.

"The claim raises big questions. Why are these files being hidden from the public and law enforcement? How many more files does the President have on his own party members? Why do these files surface only when these members oppose his dictatorial rule?", the statement said.

"President Mahinda Rajapaksa's claim about the "files" prove that in his administration bribery and corruption is not only tolerated but it is also actively encouraged," it added.

"The election set for January 8 is not merely about choosing the next president. There is a much greater choice that faces the voter in January 2015. This presidential race is a battle between democracy and autocracy. Between corruption and good governance. Between the rule of law and impunity. It will decide whether Sri Lankans will enjoy peace with dignity and equality or peace of the conquered and oppressed," the statement said.

Maithripala Sirisen, who was the former health minister defected to opposition last week and announced that he would contest the January 8 polls and challenge Rajapaksa, who is seeking an unprecedented third term.

Along with Sirisena, another minister, a deputy minister and at least three other lawmakers left the ruling coalition -- United People's Freedom Alliance.

The presidential election will take place on January 8 as Rajapaksa called the election two years ahead of schedule in an apparent attempt to seek fresh mandate before his party's popularity tumbles further, after dropping over 21 per cent in September local elections.