Several leading figures in the government have objected to Fonseka being thus given the opportunity to give orders to the Army.

It is appropriate to give him the ranking in recognition of his commitment to defeat the LTTE, but it should be a nominal one only, they have proposed to the president.

The president is yet to take a decision on this matter, but has advised Fonseka to prepare his uniform and stars and stripes to suit the field marshal position.

Fonseka’s recommendations set aside

Meanwhile, Fonseka’s appointment of several officers loyal to him to top positions in the Army has been reversed.

On the orders of the president and the prime minister, the new Army
commander has annulled those postings.