Mr. Rajapaksa says there is no provision in the Army Act to charge a commander

President’s Counsel Wijedasa Rajapaksa, told the journalists that he intends to stop “misinterpretation” of the Act which first came into force in 1949.

He is one of counsels representing detained former military commander, Gen Sarath Fonseka, who is facing two military courts on charges of getting involved in politics while in uniform and corruption in procurement.

Expressing comments similar to the former Chief Justice Sarath N Silva, Mr. Rajapaksa says the there are no provisions under the Act to charge a commander of the army.

He also accused the authorities of political motives in charging Gen Fonseka at military courts.

“It is widely accepted fact that this situation against Gen Fonseka would not arise had he not contested the presidential election,” he said.

The prominent lawyer added that it is a fundamental right guaranteed by the constitution for any citizen, including military officers, to discuss politics in his/her private capacity.