The decision to remove State Minister Susil Premajayantha, wasn't a decision taken at yesterday's cabinet meeting or something that was discussed within the party beforehand, said Minister of Mass Media - Dullas Alahapperuma.
He said thus during today's (04) Cabinet meeting.
As a close friend, I was instantly saddened when I heard the news while I was on the way here to the Cabinet briefing, the minister said.
Clarifying that the decision was taken by the President, in accordance with powers vested with him by the constitution, Minister Dullas said, there was no reason given for this, as speculated by the media.
Earlier media reports claimed that the State minister was sacked due to his recent critical statements.
(Mirror)