Sri Lanka main opposition would stand by security forces and protect Sri Lanka's democracy, deputy leader says

The deputy leader of Sri Lanka's main opposition United National Party (UNP), Karu Jayasuriya has said the party would stand to protect the country's security forces.

Addressing a ceremony to mark the 18th death anniversary of late President Ranasinghe Premadasa, Jayasuriya has said the party would stand by the security forces and safeguard democracy in the country, as it was the UNP that played the main role in gaining independence to the country.

He said the best tribute to the late President would be to uphold his principles.

Jayasuriya observed that Premadasa managed to rescue the country for destruction amidst many challenges during his tenure as President.