President Maithripala Sirisena, was unable to attend as he was on an official tour to China. However, many government and opposition politicians were present to pay their last respects. Among those present was Namal Rajapaksa, the son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Priyantha Sirisena, who was previously injured after an axe attack last week, succumbed to his injuries last Saturday.

President returns :

Meanwhile, President Maithripala Sirisena returned to the island early this morning (31) after concluding a tour to China.

The Singapore Airlines flight SQ468 on which he was aboard, had landed at 12.20am at Katunayake airport.