The President is to reply to Gen Fonseka's concerns mentioned in his letter

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), in a letter to the president, has sought permission to retire from 01 December.

Secretary to the President, Lalitha Weerathunga, in his reply to General Fonseka says the president has granted permission as the CDS has "already over stayed date of retirement by four years."

"You will be retired from the Sri Lanka Army with immediate effect. Consequently, you will cease to hold office as Chief of Defence Staff, also with immediate effect," the letter sent by Mr. Weerathunga said.

'Coup attempts'

The president has also informed the senior most military officer in the country will be provided with adequate security after the retirement.

In regard to the numerous statements made by you in your letter under reference and Annex A, I’m directed by His Excellency the President to inform you that a further communication will follow setting out the position of the Government Mr. Weerathunga's letter

In the resignation letter by CDS published by several media outlets requested to grant him sufficient security.

He has said in that letter that he is "considered as one of the highest priority targets by the LTTE, which they are yet capable of achieving".

Gen Fonseka has mentioned many reasons, including the lost of trust bestowed upon him and suspicions that he was planning a military coup, as reasons for his retirement.

Referring to reasons given by the CDS for his resignation the secretary to the president says that he is directed "by His Excellency the President to inform you that a further communication will follow setting out the position of the Government" .