President says people are happy after the defeat of the LTTE

Launching his election manifesto for 26 January presidential elections, Mr. Rajapaksa has pledged to build a "peoples consensus" after discussing all democratic forces.

Ministers and invited guests gathered to Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) on Monday for the launch of manifesto, "Mahinda Chinthana Extended Version" that was aired live on state television.

None of the candidates who launched their manifestos for the 2010 presidential elections was given live coverage.

President's manifesto Sri Lanka: the emerging "Wonder of Asia" A prosperous country; a land of plenty Comforts, convenience and satisfactory life styles Developed road network and transport system Disciplined and law abiding society A unitary state, not to be divided Shared values, rapid development and lasting peace Respect for fauna and flora Priority for Youth Focus on modern education and knowledge systems A Healthy society Entrepreneurs with strength to conquer the world Reawakening the performing arts "Brain gain" replacing "brain drain" President's election website

Addressing the gathering on Monday, President Rajapaksa said people all over Sri Lanka are happy after the military defeat of the Tamil Tigers.

"Yesterday, I travelled to the north and the east. And in my recent visits to all over Sri Lanka, I could only see the signs of freedom in every face," he said.

During the past four years all attempts have been made to create a society free of fraud and corruption, the president added.

"Our economic policy is not aimed at filling the pockets of foreign businessmen and fraudsters with dollars," he said.

President Rajapaksa’s main opponent at the elections, Gen Sarath Fonseka, in his election manifesto has pledged to eliminate corruption and help families increasing incomes and lowering taxes and the cost of living.

Twenty other candidates are also contesting to be the next executive president of Sri Lanka.