Clergy calls on Sri Lankan President to release former Army Commander Fonseka

A group of religious leaders Sunday called on Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa to release the imprisoned former Army Commander and Democratic National Alliance (DNA) Leader Sarath Fonseka from prison.

Addressing a press conference the religious leaders of various faiths said there is a miscarriage of justice with regard to Fonseka's case and urged the President to correct it by releasing the military leader turned politician.

Ven. Kolamunne Sumanawansa Thero, Rev. Patrick Fernando, Moulavi Al Haj Hassan Cassim and Hindu priest Vigneswar Sharma addressed the media briefing.

The clergy have gathered under a banner claiming "Release General Fonseka immediately."

Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa last month approved a prison sentence given by the second court martial against Sarath Fonseka after finding him guilty of four charges related to alleged irregularities in military procurements during his tenure as Army Chief.

The DNA MP Fonseka lost his parliamentary seat due to the 30-month prison term imposed on him.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's main opposition United National Party (UNP) has vowed to continue agitations for Fonseka's the freedom. The UNP has planned countrywide demonstrations on December 10 to coincide with the International Human Rights Day to urge the government to release Fonseka.