Political swipes as Sirisena sits on Salley’s chair

Last Monday, President Maithripala Sirisena opened a shopping complex in Rajagiriya and later walked into the Western Province Governor’s office located in the same building.

Sitting on Governor Azath Salley’s chair, he remarked it was comfortable and even good for him. He looked around and asked whether there was a log book. He wanted to make some comments and sign it, no doubt an honour for Mr. Salley. After all, these are days when politicians are being honoured.

One of those present said that Mr. Salley was fully supportive of the President. Among those present were Western Province Chief Minister Isuru Devapriya and Colombo District Parliamentarian Thilanga Sumathipala.

Mr. Sumpathipala chipped into say he (the Governor) was like those of the ‘ Pohottuwa’ – a reference to the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna. Another voice was heard to say all are supportive of the Phohottuwa. “Nothing of that sort here,” exhorted Mr. Salley. But President Sirisena thought otherwise. He said ‘yes, yes, there is some line like that going on’.

One of Mr. Salley’s aides, meanwhile, brought in some sheets of blank paper in the absence of a log book. The President said it was the first time he was going to make an entry on a sheet of paper.

Mr. Salley handed over a pen and the president made an entry on it. When he reached the end of his writing, he realised that the ink was green. The President again remarked, “You have kept a green pen purposely and this, too, may be having some motive.” At the end of it, Mr. Salley handed over the green pen to the President to be taken away. But, on second thoughts he inquired whether he could send him a blue pen.

“Send me a mixed coloured pen – mix green, blue and red’, a remark with a political connotation with elections pending.