Presidential candidate of New Democratic Front (NDF) Mr Sajith Premadasa says he accepts his defeat and quit the Presidential election in recognition of Gotabhaya Rajapaksa's victory as the 7th President of Sri Lanka.
Sajith Premadasa had stated in his statement:
"...At the conclusion of a hard fought and spirited election campaign, It is my privilege to honour the decision of the people and congratulate Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa on his election as the seventh President of Sri Lanka. I express my heartfelt gratitude to all of our citizens who voted for me, in all corners of the island. I am humbled that you placed your faith in me. Your support has been a fountain of strength throughout my 26 year long political career. I also wish to place on record my gratitude to all those who worked tirelessly on my campaign. My family and I will never forget your sacrifice and dedication.
We have just witnessed the most peaceful presidential election in the history of our independent republic. This was a result of the democratic gains and institutional reforms that have taken place over the last five years, that empowered an independent elections commission and restored the rule of law. My appeal to the incoming President is that he take this process forward and strengthen and protect the democratic institutions and values that enabled his peaceful election as the 7th President of Sri Lanka.
Sajith Premadasa has further stated that he will resign from his post as deputy leader of the United National Party (The current governing party of Sri Lanka)
