Fonseka treated worse than Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi

(January 02, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) Even Myanmar’s military junta had not treated the country’s pro-democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi the way the Sri Lankan government had harassed and jailed Sarath Fonseka, the war hero who saved the nation from the clutches of the ruthless LTTE, UNP Deputy Leader Karu Jayasuriya said yesterday. Myanmar had placed its opposition leader under house arrest but the Rajapaksa government had thrown the former army commander — the man who led the military to crush the LTTE and end the decades-long war – into prison where he is still languished, Jayasuriya told journalists after visiting Fonseka at the Welikada prison yesterday morning.

"The country celebrated the dawn of the New Year with the lighting of firecrackers while Fonseka wore a ‘jumper’ and suffered in prison", he said. "Fonseka’s health is deteriorating", Jayasuriya said. "This was clearly visible during my meeting with him".

"He needs medical attention", he noted. "The government must pay attention to the health condition of this brave war hero who ushered peace to this nation".

At least in the New Year, the government should take measures to release him from prison, he urged.

He said that Fonseka continues to suffer in prison while some former LTTE leaders are enjoying all the perks and privileges and enjoying a comfortable life with the blessings of the government.