Former Army Commander Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka stated that Sri Lanka must strengthen its military instead of reducing the number of armed forces personnel. He shared these views during a special interview with a media outlet.
Sri Lanka Must Maintain Strong National Security.
Fonseka stressed that Sri Lanka faced three armed uprisings in the past and could encounter external threats and pressures again in the future. He said the country should never adopt a weak approach toward national security under any circumstances.
He emphasized that the tri-forces must remain powerful at all times. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining strong intelligence units with effective operational structures. According to him, the country possessed a highly capable military structure during the final stages of the Mullivaikkal war.
Military Strength Should Continue During Peacetime.
Fonseka pointed out that only around 20 percent of the previous military force may remain today, while many others have already retired from service.Instead, the government must continuously maintain and strengthen the armed forces regardless of whether the country faces war or peace.
Fonseka further noted that national security requires long-term planning, preparedness, and a strong defence system. He warned that weakening the military could create serious risks for the country in the future.
