Ex-Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapakse has rejected allegations of improper fuel use during his tenure, stating he operated within legal limits and possessed documentation to support his position.
Former Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ajith Rajapakse has responded to accusations of misusing government fuel allocations by asserting that he strictly adhered to approved procedures and legal entitlements throughout his time in office. In a statement, Rajapakse characterized the allegations as false information circulated through social media and electronic media outlets designed to harm his reputation without proper examination of relevant regulations.
Rajapakse acknowledged that he lacked access to a suitable official vehicle for performing his Deputy Speaker duties but stated that rather than lease a vehicle at significant expense, he utilized fuel allocations as a cost-effective alternative. He maintained that this approach saved public funds compared to external rental arrangements. The former official emphasized that all his actions aligned with established laws and traditions governing former Speakers and Deputy Speakers, and he claims to possess official documentation substantiating his fuel usage.
Expressing frustration at the allegations, Rajapakse criticized media outlets for making claims without conducting proper investigations. He further suggested that the accusations against him were intended to divert public attention from corruption allegations involving current government officials who he believes warrant investigation. Rajapakse categorically denied engaging in any illegal activity and reaffirmed his commitment to operating within regulatory frameworks throughout his parliamentary tenure.