Sarath Fonseka#Politics

Fonseka was born on 18 December 1950 in the coastal town of Ambalangoda in the south of Sri Lanka. His father was Gardihewage Peter Fonseka, a school principal and his mother Egodage Piyawathie De Silva was a teacher. He initially attended Madawalalanda Maha Vidyalaya (1955–1957) in Ampara,[http://www.lankatruth.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4235:general-fonseka-visits-his-first-school-in-ampara-meets-classmate&catid=35:local&Itemid=50 General Fonseka visits his first school in Ampara] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713184317/http://www.lankatruth.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4235:general-fonseka-visits-his-first-school-in-ampara-meets-classmate&catid=35:local&Itemid=50 |date=13 July 2011 }}. Lanka Truth. Retrieved 7 January 2010. later receiving his secondary education from Dharmasoka College, Ambalangoda (1958–1965) and Ananda College, Colombo (1966–1969). Fonseka represented his alma mater in cadeting, swimming and water polo events. He was the college swimming and water polo captain in 1969 and later represented the defence services and the country in these sports. He was a sergeant of the College Cadet Platoon.[http://archives.dailynews.lk/2009/07/03/Sup.asp?id=s13 Meteoric rise of Ananda's patriotic sons] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505040801/http://archives.dailynews.lk/2009/07/03/Sup.asp?id=s13 |date=5 May 2015 }}, Rasika SOMARATNA, Daily News. Retrieved 4 May 2015[http://archives.dailynews.lk/2009/07/03/Sup.asp?id=s17 Ananda inspires students to serve the Nation] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505003552/http://archives.dailynews.lk/2009/07/03/Sup.asp?id=s17 |date=5 May 2015 }}, Daily News. Retrieved 4 May 2015

Fonseka joined the Ceylon Army on 5 February 1970 as a cadet officer and after completing his basic officer training at the Army Training Centre in Diyatalawa, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the 1st Battalion, Ceylon Sinha Regiment on 1 June 1971 during the 1971 Insurrection.

Serving as platoon commander in the Sinha Regiment, he was promoted to lieutenant in 1973 and was promoted to the rank of captain in 1976. During this time he underwent the Commando Officers Course (1973), Battalion Support Weapons Course (1976) and Counter Insurgency Jungle Warfare Course (1978) in India. In 1980 he was promoted to the rank of major and in 1981 he attended the Company Commanders Course in Pakistan. In the next few years he served as an instructor at the Sri Lanka Military Academy, Ampara Combat Training School and Infantry Training Centre, and later as the Chief Instructor and Deputy Commandant in the same training institutes.

In 1987, he graduated from Defence Services Command and Staff College, Mirpur in Bangladesh. On his return he was appointed commanding officer, 4th Sri Lanka Light Infantry and participated in the Vadamarachchi Operation.[http://www.sundaytimes.lk/090628/Plus/sundaytimesplus_08.html Operation Liberation One] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010065100/https://www.sundaytimes.lk/090628/Plus/sundaytimesplus_08.html |date=10 October 2024 }}, The Sunday Times. Retrieved 6 April 2015[http://oaaj.org/speech.html Full text of H.Efs speech at the War Heroes commemoration event at the Ananda College] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150412215715/http://oaaj.org/speech.html |date=12 April 2015 }}, Old Anandians Web Japan. Retrieved 6 April 2015[http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090703_07 Sri Lanka taught world the art of humane ops-President] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150419044136/http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090703_07 |date=19 April 2015 }}, Ministry of Defence. Retrieved 6 April 2015 The following year he was promoted to lieutenant colonel and appointed Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment in 1989.

With the onset of the 1987–89 JVP Insurrection, he was appointed military coordinating officer for Gampaha District. Fonseka reputedly devised the plan which led to the capture of Premakumar Gunaratnam and gained a reputation for his humane treatment of detainees.[http://www.dailymirror.lk/62597/fsp-leader-kumar-gunaratnam-fought-a-guerilla-war-against-the-indian-army FSP leader Kumar Gunaratnam fought a Guerilla war against the Indian army: Security Forces] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402093220/http://www.dailymirror.lk/62597/fsp-leader-kumar-gunaratnam-fought-a-guerilla-war-against-the-indian-army |date=2 April 2015 }}, By D.B.S.Jeyaraj, The Daily Mirror (Sri Lanka). Retrieved 29 March 2015

In 1991, he was promoted to colonel and served as a brigade commander, 3rd Brigade during Operation Balavegaya and distinguished himself as a Brigade Commander. In the First Battle of Elephant Pass, the Sri Lankan armed forces were able to beat back the LTTE owing to the tenacity of the besieged troops led by Fonseka and the grit with which they held on despite the overwhelming odds. Thereafter he was appointed Center Commandant, Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment at Ambepussa and next served as Staff Officer I at the Directorate of Operations at the Army Headquarters.

In 1993, the Jaffna Fort was under siege by Tamil Tiger rebels. Then Colonel Fonseka led troops in the daring Midnight Express operation to relieve besieged troops. Several hundred soldiers were saved due to the operation. Colonel Fonseka was wounded that year in the Yaldevi operation, having been shot through the lung. At the time Fonseka was commanding the 23 Division. After recovering, he was promoted to brigadier in December 1993 and was appointed to the Operational Headquarters in Colombo.

Brigadier Fonseka was soon deployed to operational areas serving as Commander – Area Headquarters, Mannar; General Officer Commanding, 5 Division in Mannar; General Officer Commanding, 21 Division; Deputy Commander, Task Force I; General Officer Commanding, 3 Division in Batticaloa; General Officer Commanding, 27 Division in Kilinochchi; Coordinating Officer for Kayts and Mandattivu, Deputy General Officer Commanding, 51 Division in Jaffna, General Officer Commanding, 23 Division in Polonnaruwa; Overlooking General Officer Commanding Vavuniya Task Force – 2; General Officer Commanding, 55 Division at Mirusuvil.

In 1995, Brigadier Fonseka won widespread plaudits for his role in Operation Riviresa – the army's operation to capture Jaffna town from the Tamil Tigers. He played a major role in Operation Jayasikurui. In 1998, he was promoted to the rank of major general. He was appointed Colonel of the Regiment of the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment. Serving as General Officer Commanding, 22 Division and Director General, General Staff at the Army Headquarters.

In 2000, with the imminent fall of Elephant Pass, Major General Fonseka was rushed in as Commander, Security Forces Headquarters - Jaffna and successfully defended the Jaffna peninsula from the massive offensive Operation Unceasing Waves III launched by the LTTE.[http://www.slguardian.org/?p=15274 We built too many walls and not enough bridges] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402154901/http://www.slguardian.org/?p=15274 |date=2 April 2015 }}, By Keerthi Ratnayaka, Sri Lanka Guardian. Retrieved 31 March 2015 Thereafter he served as Commander, Security Forces Headquarters - Wanni. From May 2002 to November 2003 after he was again appointed the Commander, Security Forces Headquarters – Jaffna, Fonseka strengthened the defences of Jaffna[http://slwaronterror.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/jaffna-hsz-reduced-further.html 2002–2003 controversy over Jaffna HSZ] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303193244/http://slwaronterror.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/jaffna-hsz-reduced-further.html |date=3 March 2016 }} by Shamindra Ferdinando, The Island. Retrieved 17 May 2015[http://www.lankaweb.com/news/items03/160203-2.html LTTE DEMONSTRATIONS IN JAFFNA AND VAVUNIYA BURN EFFIGIES OF JAFFNA COMMANDER SARATH FONSEKA AND DEMAND ARMY TO QUIT] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402134315/http://www.lankaweb.com/news/items03/160203-2.html |date=2 April 2015 }}, By Walter Jayawardhana, (LankaWeb). Retrieved 31 March 2015[http://www.sundaytimes.lk/021229/columns/sitrep.html HSZ row: Story behind the story] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010064950/https://www.sundaytimes.lk/021229/columns/sitrep.html |date=10 October 2024 }} The Sunday Times. Retrieved 24 February 2016[http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/shrilanka/document/papers/MG_sarath.htm De-escalation Plan proposed by Security Forces Commander, Jaffna Peninsula, Maj. Gen. Sarath Fonseka, to Enable Re-settlement of Civilians in High Security Zones, December 20, 2002] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427183218/http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/shrilanka/document/papers/MG_sarath.htm |date=27 April 2017 }} South Asia Terrorism Portal. Retrieved 24 February 2016 and launched a new training programme for the infantry.[http://businesstoday.lk/cover_page.php?issue=202#sthash.cqHoVGsC.dpuf The Man of the Moment : Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160402001905/http://businesstoday.lk/cover_page.php?issue=202#sthash.cqHoVGsC.dpuf |date=2 April 2016 }}, Business Today. Retrieved 17 May 2015[https://www.benning.army.mil/infantry/magazine/issues/2013/May-June/Welch.html Infantry Innovations: Sri Lanka’s Experience] by LTC (Retired) Ivan Welch, U.S. Army Infantry Magazine. Retrieved 17 May 2015{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20150328123409/http://futuredirections.org.au/files/1266992558-FDIStrategicAnalysisPaper-12February2010.pdf Strategic Analysis of Sri Lankan Military’s Counter-Insurgency Operations]}}, Sergei DeSilva-Ranasinghe, Future Directions International. Retrieved 17 May 2015

Thereafter he attended the Royal College of Defence Studies in London and on his return he was appointed Commandant, Defence Services Command and Staff College. In 2003, he was appointed Commandant, Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force and in 2004 he was appointed Director Infantry, Deputy Chief of Staff and then Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army. In December 2005 he was appointed Commander of the Army by president Mahinda Rajapaksa and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant general.

{{See also|Chaminda Ruwan Yakandawala}}

On 25 April 2006, Lt. General Fonseka survived an LTTE suicide bomb attack on his unarmored staff car by a pregnant LTTE operative named Anoja Kugenthirarasah who infiltrated Army Headquarters by attending the regular maternity clinic provided for civilians at the military hospital.[http://www.tamilguardian.com/article.asp?articleid=632 Fonseka still critical after suicide bomb attack] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220703125615/https://www.tamilguardian.com/content/fonseka-still-critical-after-suicide-bomb-attack?articleid=632 |date=3 July 2022 }}, Tamil Guardian. Retrieved 29 March 2015[https://web.archive.org/web/20070214084152/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,501060508-1189385,00.html If This is Called Peace], Time. Retrieved 30 April 2006. Fonseka was gravely wounded in the attack along with his ADC; while nine others, including members of his security detail were killed. The General was rushed to the Colombo General Hospital within minutes. This had been possible because the attack took place next to the Army Hospital and therefore an ambulance was at hand. Fonseka was conscious upon admittance and had communicated with his officers and the doctors. The general, who was unconscious following emergency surgery, was put on a ventilator and regained consciousness on 30 April 2006. He was later transferred to the military hospital at Army Headquarters and subsequently flown to Singapore for medical treatment.[http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20060731_09 General Sarath Fonseka reassumes the office] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402173652/http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20060731_09 |date=2 April 2015 }}, Ministry of Defence website. Retrieved 29 March 2015 Years later, in 2016 Fonseka requested President Maithripala Sirisena to take steps towards releasing the person imprisoned in connection with his attempted assassination.{{cite web|last1=Jayawardhane|first1=Kalathma|title=Release person imprisoned over my suicide attack: SF|url=http://www.dailymirror.lk/107028/Release-person-imprisoned-over-my-suicide-attack-SF|work=Daily Mirror|access-date=31 March 2016|archive-date=20 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320002827/http://www.dailymirror.lk/107028/Release-person-imprisoned-over-my-suicide-attack-SF|url-status=live}}

After recovering from his wounds, Lt. General Fonseka resumed his duties in July 2006.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/4941744.stm|title=Bomb targets Sri Lanka army chief|work=BBC News|date=25 April 2006|access-date=25 December 2009|archive-date=30 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090930114505/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/4941744.stm|url-status=live}} Fonseka has been described as the mastermind of the military strategy behind the military victory in Sri Lanka's three-decade war against terrorism.[http://www.island.lk/2009/06/08/news3.html Mi 24s role in eelam war IV emphasised] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304102442/http://www.island.lk/2009/06/08/news3.html |date=4 March 2016 }} by Shamindra Ferdinando, The Island. Retrieved 17 May 2015[http://www.nation.lk/2009/07/19/militarym.htm Refurbishing the Armed Forces] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150603213203/http://www.nation.lk/2009/07/19/militarym.htm |date=3 June 2015 }} By Tissa Ravindra Perera, The Nation. Retrieved 18 May 2015 He abandoned conventional methods, matched the ingenious tactics and strategies of the LTTE, fully used the superior numerical strength and fire power of the Sri Lankan armed forces and kept up pressure on the enemy. He broke tradition by insisting on the full deployment of naval and air power to aid the war on land and succeeded in getting the support of the other service commanders.

Fonseka broke army units into small groups and made these highly trained and motivated men who infiltrated Tiger-held areas, tracked down the fighting cadres of the LTTE and eliminated them. He transformed the Sri Lankan army from its defensive posture to an offensive force. Along with his proactive military leadership, the battle-hardened commander changed military strategy in preparations before the war such as changing the training and ethos of the infantry and preparing the defences in the north. He empowered the frontline soldier, breaking the norms of conventional military attitude. In 2007, Fonseka introduced the Mechanized Infantry Regiment.[http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=11939 Now Mechanized Infantry moves to ME hot spot] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518103434/http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=11939 |date=18 May 2015 }} By Shamindra Ferdinando, The Island. Retrieved 18 May 2015{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20080403063332/http://transcurrents.com/tamiliana/archives/593 Tigers Get Ready to Face the Mechanized Infantry of the Army in North]}} by D.B.S.Jeyaraj, transcurrents. Retrieved 17 May 2015[http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20080128_10 "Innovation to Engage" the Medal Awarding ceremony of the Mechanized Infantry Regiment] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605041838/http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20080128_10 |date=5 June 2015 }}, Ministry of Defence (Sri Lanka). Retrieved 23 May 2015

Fonseka changed the reactionary nature of the Army and formulated a plan that would end the war in a time frame of three years.[http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=124949 SF denies claim of 40,000 civilian deaths in Vanni, says his men paid heavy price by not using heavy weapons] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521204311/http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=124949 |date=21 May 2015 }} By Shamindra Ferdinando, The Island. Retrieved 21 May 2015 The aim was shifted from capturing ground to destroying the enemy.[http://www.ft.lk/2015/03/10/general-sarath-fonseka-reveals-untold-story-of-eelam-war-iv/ General Sarath Fonseka reveals untold story of Eelam War IV] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402132327/http://www.ft.lk/2015/03/10/general-sarath-fonseka-reveals-untold-story-of-eelam-war-iv/ |date=2 April 2015 }}, By Malik Gunatilleke, Daily FT. Retrieved 21 March 2015 He reduced operations conducted along the main roads and expanded the battlefront to disperse the enemy manpower and firepower. To this end he devised the strategy of introducing large numbers of four-man teams to the theatre of war, thereby reducing military and civilian casualties through dispersion, stealth and precision in operations[http://www.tribuneindia.com/2008/20081208/world.htm#9 Lanka seeks India help to ‘finish’ LTTE faster] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304071926/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2008/20081208/world.htm#9 |date=4 March 2016 }}, The Tribune. Retrieved 15 June 2015 and fought the war on multiple fronts. He inaugurated the northern campaign before the conclusion of the eastern campaign, thereby making it difficult for political intrusion to halt the war.[http://www.thesundayleader.lk/archive/20070708/spotlight.htm President's Tiger deal exposed] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411222504/http://www.thesundayleader.lk/archive/20070708/spotlight.htm |date=11 April 2016 }} – Sonali Samarasinghe (The Sunday Leader) Retrieved 14 February 2016[https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2016/02/07/sec04.asp The return of Emil Kanthan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807183556/http://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2016/02/07/sec04.asp |date=7 August 2017 }} – Manjula Fernando (Sunday Observer) Retrieved 14 February 2016[http://www.thehindu.com/2005/11/29/stories/2005112906001700.htm Rajapakse invites LTTE leader for peace talks]{{dead link|date=April 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} – V.S. Sambandan (The Hindu) Retrieved 14 February 2016[http://www.tamilnet.com/art.html?artid=16433&catid=13 Colombo to continue to maintain CFA with LTTE] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010065103/https://www.tamilnet.com/art.html?artid=16433&catid=13 |date=10 October 2024 }} – TamilNet Retrieved 14 February 2016[http://www.ft.lk/2015/01/06/opposition-speak-out-ahead-of-crucial-vote/ Opposition speak out ahead of crucial vote] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222123959/http://www.ft.lk/2015/01/06/opposition-speak-out-ahead-of-crucial-vote/ |date=22 February 2016 }} – Dharisha Bastians (Daily FT) Retrieved 14 February 2016

General Fonseka opted instead to attack the LTTE's strongest areas and opted for performance over seniority and selected officers with experience in the field. He restructured the Army Intelligence Units which proved vital for the Navy and the Air Force to destroy LTTE ships, commanders and other targets. Fonseka implemented strong measures to improve the discipline in the army, eradicate corruption and wastage. He also reduced the burden on the government and the citizen by the effective management of the resources at his disposal and personally ensured the unimpeded supply of ammunition.[https://www.adaderana.lk/news/30254/fonseka-to-continue-in-politics-while-protecting-respect- Fonseka to continue in politics while protecting respect] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626174728/http://www.adaderana.lk/news/30254/fonseka-to-continue-in-politics-while-protecting-respect- |date=26 June 2015 }}, adaderana.lk. Retrieved 15 June 2015 In January 2009, he was described as the best army commander in the world by India's National Security Advisor.

;Defeat of the LTTE

On 18 May 2009, the Sri Lankan military completely defeated the LTTE after 26 years of civil war.{{cite news|url=http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090518_13|title=He Told the task accomplished|publisher=Official government defence site|access-date=21 May 2009|archive-date=21 May 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090521113638/http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090518_13|url-status=live}} Press Release, Ministry of Defence, Public Security, Law & Order. Fonseka played a key role as Commander of the Army, and is considered as a national hero by the majority of Sri Lankans due to this achievement.[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/srilanka/7005269/Sri-Lankan-warrior-has-president-in-his-sights.html Sri Lankan warrior has president in his sights] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170518175447/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/srilanka/7005269/Sri-Lankan-warrior-has-president-in-his-sights.html |date=18 May 2017 }}. Telegraph (UK). Retrieved 17 January 2010.{{cite news | title=General intentions | date=19 November 2009 | url=http://www.economist.com/world/asia/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14915330 | newspaper=The Economist | access-date=15 December 2009 | archive-date=10 December 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091210033131/http://www.economist.com/world/asia/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14915330 | url-status=live }} He was soon after promoted to general, becoming the first army commander to hold a full general rank, since it was traditionally awarded to retiring Commanders of the Army.

File:Sarath Fonseka at Ananda.jpg in July 2009.]]

Fonseka was appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) by President Rajapaksa effective 15 July 2009. He was the first person appointed CDS under the newly approved Chief of Defence Staff Act, which was supposed to give the CDS more responsibilities in co-ordinating the armed forces.[http://www.asianews.it/news-en/Army-celebrates-60-years-as-bishop-of-Colombo-calls-for-peace-and-harmony-16537.html Army celebrates 60 years as bishop of Colombo calls for peace and harmony] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402181038/http://www.asianews.it/news-en/Army-celebrates-60-years-as-bishop-of-Colombo-calls-for-peace-and-harmony-16537.html |date=2 April 2015 }}, by Melani Manel Perera, AsiaNews. Retrieved 29 March 2015

Fonseka officially handed over his letter of resignation to the President through the Defence secretary on 12 November 2009. He requested to serve as CDS until the end of the month since he resigned to compete as a candidate for the presidential election which was held in January 2010. He left office on 16 November 2009,[http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=68019 Tribute to the fallen] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091220094154/http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=68019 |date=20 December 2009 }}. Daily Mirror (Sri Lanka). Retrieved 16 November 2009. President Mahinda Rajapaksa appointed Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force Air Marshal Roshan Goonatilake to succeed Fonseka on 16 November 2009.

Sarath Fonseka asked President Ranil to create new high rank title for him as Marshal to help president in next presidential election.

There were newspaper reports published about Fonseka entering politics after the war victory, beginning in August 2009. One of the articles explains it as follows, "General Fonseka launches political campaign – I will make a supreme sacrifice to defend my land against the politicos who ever they may be joining hands with India. Now we have a daunting task to protect our motherland from India".[http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2009/8/46939_space.html General Fonseka launches political campaign] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090820190143/http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2009/8/46939_space.html |date=20 August 2009 }}. Lanka News Papers. Retrieved 17 August 2009. Gen. Fonseka entering politics was a debate even during the war against LTTE.{{cite web|url=http://transcurrents.com/tc/2008/12/post_125.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081214051731/http://transcurrents.com/tc/2008/12/post_125.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=14 December 2008|title=Is Lt.Gen Sarath Fonseka nurturing a Political Ambition After Retirement?}}

Fonseka was installed as the common candidate by a coalition of political parties consisting mainly of the United National Party and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna and had the support of former president Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga. General Fonseka however declared himself as a non-party candidate.

Immediately after declaration that Fonseka was ready for candidacy, President Rajapaksa called for new presidential elections two years before expiration of his term.{{cite news|title=President Rajapaksa calls for early election|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/president-rajapaksa-calls-for-early-election/545158/|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=23 November 2009|access-date=19 October 2013|archive-date=13 August 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100813192548/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/president-rajapaksa-calls-for-early-election/545158/|url-status=live}}

Fonseka, UNP and JVP campaigned claiming he was the real hero who won the war against LTTE and a Fonseka government was ready for good governance along with the support of all the minorities, eliminate prevailing corruption under Mahinda Rajapaka's government and also promised a massive salary increase for public servants which had been denied thus far. They also promised to change the constitution to remove executive powers from the presidency and transfer such powers to the parliament. Further they promised to establish the 17 amendment to authorise independent commissions as a measure to counter the ongoing mishandling of public money.[http://indi.ca/2010/01/sarath-fonsekas-election-manifesto/ Sarath Fonseka’s Election Manifesto] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100122021332/http://indi.ca/2010/01/sarath-fonsekas-election-manifesto/ |date=22 January 2010 }}. indi.ca (7 January 2010). Retrieved 23 March 2011.[http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=124612 SF vows to punish thieves of public funds] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304100518/http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=124612 |date=4 March 2016 }}, By Harischandra Gunaratna, The Island. Retrieved 15 June 2015 The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) also endorsed Fonseka.{{cite news|title=Tamil National Alliance announced support for General Fonseka|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/tamil-national-alliance-announced-support-for-general-fonseka/article75898.ece|newspaper=The Hindu|date=9 January 2010|location=Chennai, India|first=B. Muralidhar|last=Reddy|access-date=19 October 2013|archive-date=20 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020182632/http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/tamil-national-alliance-announced-support-for-general-fonseka/article75898.ece|url-status=live}}

File:Sarath Fonseka Posters.jpg

Fonseka suffered a number of setbacks in his election campaign. In December 2009, A news item was published in local newspaper "Sunday Leader" quoting Sarath Fonseka saying that during the final few days of the war against LTTE, Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapakse (who is a brother of the President) gave orders to the army senior officers to execute three LTTE cadres who surrendered to the Army.[http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2009/12/13/%E2%80%9Cgota-ordered-them-to-be-shot%E2%80%9D-%E2%80%93-general-sarath-fonseka/ “Gota Ordered Them To Be Shot” – General Sarath Fonseka {{!}} The Sunday Leader] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100213132642/http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2009/12/13/%E2%80%9Cgota-ordered-them-to-be-shot%E2%80%9D-%E2%80%93-general-sarath-fonseka/ |date=13 February 2010 }}. Thesundayleader.lk (13 December 2009). Retrieved 23 March 2011. Due to the massive publicity given in the state media, this statement was taken by the whole country as betrayal of army officers by the retired army commander himself.[http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2010/01/24/rajapaksa-gets-astounding-98-of-time-on-state-media/ Rajapaksa Gets Astounding 98% Of Time On State Media {{!}} The Sunday Leader] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100130170318/http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2010/01/24/rajapaksa-gets-astounding-98-of-time-on-state-media/ |date=30 January 2010 }}. Thesundayleader.lk (24 January 2010). Retrieved 23 March 2011. Although General Fonseka later issued a statement saying that his original statement has been published by the Sunday Leader out of context, many analysts say that Fonseka lost the election from that moment.http://lankainfoonline.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=32:fonseka-denies-sunday-leader-report&catid=3:news&Itemid=1

Government accused Fonseka of corruption claiming that he removed the tender board chairman from the office and he himself became the chairman only to offer all the tenders to a company owned by his son-in-law. Citing an alleged close friend of Fonseka named Upul Illangamge it was claimed a US-based company owned by Fonseka's son-in-law sold 3 million rupees worth equipment necessary for the war during the final three years of the war. Fonseka claimed that the company referred in the accusation has no connection to his son-in-law's company although both companies share one name: Hicorp but the allegation was continuously reported in state media.{{cite news|title=Will expose arms deals – Ilangamge|url=http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2010/1/52597_space.html|newspaper=Lankannewspapers.com|date=12 January 2010|access-date=19 October 2013|archive-date=20 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020163120/http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2010/1/52597_space.html|url-status=live}}

The government alleged a secret agreement between TNA and General Fonseka{{cite news|title=Fonseka accused of making 'secret pact' with TNA|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/fonseka-accused-of-making-secret-pact-with-tna/article76689.ece|newspaper=The Hindu|date=7 January 2010|location=Chennai, India|first=B. Muralidhar|last=Reddy|access-date=19 October 2013|archive-date=20 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020182730/http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/fonseka-accused-of-making-secret-pact-with-tna/article76689.ece|url-status=live}} in which Fonseka had promised merger of North and East provinces and an autonomous status for Tamils in return for the support of the north and east Tamil population in the presidential election. However opposition leaders proved that the agreement was a fake one with fake signatures adapted by another resources. Also the opposition revealed a secret written agreement between Mahinda Rajapaksa and EPDP Leader Douglas Devananda who was a Tamil politician faithful to Rajapaksa.[http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2009/12/20/the-mahinda-rajapakse-douglas-devananda-agreement/ The Mahinda Rajapakse-Douglas Devananda Agreement: {{!}} The Sunday Leader] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617030425/http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2009/12/20/the-mahinda-rajapakse-douglas-devananda-agreement/ |date=17 June 2011 }}. Thesundayleader.lk (20 December 2009). Retrieved 23 March 2011.

Sarath Fonseka however sincerely expected that he was set for a massive win on 26 January 2010. He booked 70 rooms of a five star hotel some hundred metres away from the President's House for the night of 26 January 2010. Media citing Sri Lankan military reported that a large number (about 400) of deserted army soldiers spent the night with General Fonseka at the hotel to enjoy the election results. Fonseka's camp stated that there may be about 400 people in the hotel but were the leaders of parties supporting the common opposition candidate, and did not consist of any army deserters.{{cite news|title=Army deserters at leading hotel|url=http://www.dailymirror.lk/index.php/news/1226-army-deserters-at-leading-hotel.html|access-date=20 October 2013|newspaper=Daily Mirror|archive-date=21 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021003246/http://www.dailymirror.lk/index.php/news/1226-army-deserters-at-leading-hotel.html|url-status=live}}

Election results were released by the election commissioner electorate by electorate in the morning of 27 January 2010.

Fonseka refused to accept the election results published by the Election Commissioner.[http://www.lankatruth.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4580:we-do-not-accept-the-distorted-result-of-the-election-gen-fonseka&catid=35:local&Itemid=50 We do not accept the distorted result of the election – General Fonseka] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713184344/http://www.lankatruth.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4580:we-do-not-accept-the-distorted-result-of-the-election-gen-fonseka&catid=35:local&Itemid=50 |date=13 July 2011 }}. Lankatruth.com (28 January 2010). Retrieved 23 March 2011.{{cite news | url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8482963.stm | work=BBC News | title=Sri Lanka poll victory challenged | date=27 January 2010 | access-date=23 May 2010 | archive-date=17 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717085258/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8482963.stm | url-status=live }} He also said he would consider applying for asylum in Australia.{{cite news|title=Beaten Sri Lankan general considers asylum in Australia|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2010-01-29/beaten-sri-lankan-general-considers-asylum-in/313520|access-date=29 January 2010|newspaper=ABC News Australia|archive-date=29 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029040825/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2010-01-29/beaten-sri-lankan-general-considers-asylum-in/313520|url-status=live}}

On 28 January 2010, CID began its new investigations on claims made by several ministers of Rajapaksa government that Fonseka was planning a coup to remove Rajapakse{{cite news|title=Gen Fonseka arrested, to be court martialled|url=http://www.timesnow.tv/Gen-Fonseka-arrested-to-be-court-martialled/articleshow/4338099.cms|date=9 February 2010|newspaper=Times Now|access-date=19 October 2013|archive-date=20 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020124750/http://www.timesnow.tv/Gen-Fonseka-arrested-to-be-court-martialled/articleshow/4338099.cms|url-status=dead}} in case of close election results on 26 January in connection with this investigation, a media institution "Lanka" run by JVP who helped Fonseka during presidential election was sealed on 30 January 2010 by the CID with a court order. Within a few days the court accepted the appeal and ordered CID to re-open the office.{{cite news|title=CID seals 'Lanka' office premises|url=http://www.dailymirror.lk/index.php/news/1303-cid-seals-lanka-office-premises.html|newspaper=Daily mirror|date=30 January 2010|access-date=19 October 2013|archive-date=21 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021010328/http://www.dailymirror.lk/index.php/news/1303-cid-seals-lanka-office-premises.html|url-status=live}} The Sri Lanka Army arrested Fonseka on 8 February 2010 for committing military offences.{{Cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/feb/08/sarath-fonseka-arrested-coup-charge|title=Sri Lankan general held in crackdown|date=8 February 2010|website=The Guardian|access-date=18 July 2022|archive-date=10 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010064952/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/feb/08/sarath-fonseka-arrested-coup-charge|url-status=live}}

It was alleged that Fonseka became a political prisoner after running as a presidential candidate against President Mahinda Rajapaksa.{{cite news|title=9000 political prisoners including Sarath Fonseka 9000 political prisoners including Sarath Fonseka|url=http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=11079|newspaper=Ada Derana|access-date=8 February 2012|archive-date=1 March 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110301130358/http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=11079|url-status=live}} He was arrested at his office in Colombo on 8 February 2010 by the military police as he was at the time in the army regular reserve following retirement,{{cite news|url=http://adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=7131|title=Fonseka to face Court Marshal: MCNS|date=9 February 2010|publisher=Ada Derana|access-date=10 February 2010|archive-date=10 February 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100210231730/http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=7131|url-status=live}} and taken into military custody. The military announced he would be court-martialed for "committing military offences" during his time as Chief of Defence Staff.[http://www.dailymirror.lk/index.php/news/1518-general-fonseka-arrested.html "General Fonseka arrested"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010065102/https://www.dailymirror.lk/index.php/news/1518-general-fonseka-arrested.html |date=10 October 2024 }}, Daily Mirror, 8 February 2010 The military stated that he would be charged according to the SL ARMY ACT, Section 57(1). The military tribunal in which the case was heard was challenged on multiple issues including the suitability and qualifications of the judges{{Cite web |url=http://www.groundreport.com/World/General-Fonsekas-Lawyers-To-Challenge-His-Court-Ma/2919678 |title=General Fonseka's Lawyers to Challenge His Court Martial Trial | GroundReport |access-date=15 August 2010 |archive-date=7 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110407005116/http://www.groundreport.com/World/General-Fonsekas-Lawyers-To-Challenge-His-Court-Ma/2919678 |url-status=dead }} and the hearing of the case during an official holiday period of lawyers (9–13 August 2010), and his lawyers were not present. Furthermore, because the witnesses were summoned during the aforementioned period, the lawyers of the accused never had a chance to interrogate the witnesses. Amidst all these issues, the panel of judges of General Court Martial which included Major General A.L.R. Weeratunga, Major General Lalith Wijetunga and Major General Bhatiya Jayatilleke found Fonseka guilty of the charges. Sentenced to 30 months after the court martial in 2010 convicted him of irregularities in army procurement. In August 2010, by proclamation from President Mahinda Rajapaksa as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, he was cashiered from the army, having been stripped of his rank, medals and decorations. His military pension was forfeited.{{cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/100815/News/nws_02.html|title=President ratifies stripping of Fonseka|website=sundaytimes.lk|access-date=23 November 2014|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924125003/http://www.sundaytimes.lk/100815/News/nws_02.html|url-status=live}}

In November 2011, Fonseka was sentenced to three years in jail and fined Rs. 5000 in a two-one split verdict delivered in the white flag case with two judges finding him guilty on one of the charges while one of the judges acquitted him on all three charges.{{cite news | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-15787672 | work=BBC News | title=Sri Lanka's jailed ex-army chief Fonseka given new term | date=18 November 2011 | access-date=20 June 2018 | archive-date=25 October 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191025091918/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-15787672 | url-status=live }}{{cite news | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/19/world/asia/sri-lanka-2nd-sentence-for-ex-general-sarath-fonseka.html | work=The New York Times | title=Sri Lanka: 2nd Sentence for Ex-General Sarath Fonseka | date=18 November 2011 | access-date=28 February 2017 | archive-date=11 February 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211235527/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/19/world/asia/sri-lanka-2nd-sentence-for-ex-general-sarath-fonseka.html | url-status=live }}{{Cite web|url=https://www.dailymirror.lk/top-story/14839-sarath|title=Daily Mirror – Sri Lanka Latest Breaking News and Headlines|website=Daily Mirror |location=Sri Lanka|access-date=18 July 2022|archive-date=18 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220718084837/https://www.dailymirror.lk/top-story/14839-sarath|url-status=live}}

In March 2012, he was acquitted by Judge Sunil Rajapaksa of the High Court of Colombo of fraud charges in the case known as the "Hi-Corp Case" upholding the objections raised by his Counsel that the charges in the High Court and the Court Martial were substantially the same and that he cannot be sentenced twice on the same offence. However one more case continued against him in respect of an allegation that he harboured deserters during the presidential election campaign.

Sarath Fonseka, Leader of Democratic National Alliance, obtained over 98,000 votes only in Colombo District. It is the 2nd highest individual vote obtaining percentage ever in the election, 89.0%. His party was placed 3rd in the district with 110,683 votes (11.78%).{{cite web |url=http://www.slelections.gov.lk/parliamentary_elections/01Z.html |title=Department of Election |access-date=25 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130413141019/http://www.slelections.gov.lk/parliamentary_elections/01Z.html |archive-date=13 April 2013 }} General Sarath Fonseka was a Member of the Sri Lankan Parliament, until he was sentenced to serve a two and half-year prison sentence which made him unable to continue his membership in the chamber according to the Sri Lankan Constitution. However, he requested the Court of Appeal to issue writs against the cashiering, prison sentence and removal from parliament. The petition on the prison sentence was rejected in December 2011 and he appealed to the Supreme Court in January 2012.

Amidst local and international pressure president Mahinda Rajapaksa signed the order documents for the release of Fonseka during May 2012.{{cite news | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-18143907 | work=BBC News | title=Sri Lanka's Sarath Fonseka freed from prison | date=21 May 2012 | access-date=20 June 2018 | archive-date=23 February 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223154804/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-18143907 | url-status=live }}{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/may/20/sri-lankan-president-releases-rival | location=London | work=The Guardian | first=Jason | last=Burke | title=Sri Lankan president orders release of Sarath Fonseka | date=20 May 2012 | access-date=17 December 2016 | archive-date=10 October 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010064619/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/may/20/sri-lankan-president-releases-rival | url-status=live }}[https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/the-fonseka-agenda/ The Fonseka Agenda] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010064957/https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/the-fonseka-agenda/ |date=10 October 2024 }}, Colombo Telegraph. Retrieved 15 June 2015

In September 2012, DNA MP Tiran Alles resigned from the post of Secretary of the Democratic National Party headed by Sarath Fonseka. Alles was in the media spotlight as he held several rounds of discussions with President Mahinda Rajapaksa to secure the release of Sarath Fonseka.{{cite web|url=http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=19555|title=Tiran Alles resigns from DNP Secretary Post|website=adaderana.lk|access-date=18 October 2012|archive-date=15 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121115074902/http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=19555|url-status=live}}

In October 2012, National Bhikku Front and DNA called for a movement for abolition of the executive presidency under the joint leadership of UNP MP Karu Jayasuriya and Fonseka. Despite the fact that Jayasuriya requested the permission,{{Cite web |url=http://www.ft.lk/2012/10/17/karu-writes-to-ranil-over-wc-decision-to-restrict-members-activism-with-united-bhikku-front/ |title=Karu writes to Ranil over WC decision to restrict members' activism with United Bhikku Front | DailyFT – be Empowered |access-date=18 October 2012 |archive-date=19 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019194515/http://www.ft.lk/2012/10/17/karu-writes-to-ranil-over-wc-decision-to-restrict-members-activism-with-united-bhikku-front/ |url-status=dead }} United National Party leadership ordered its members to boycott the rally which was scheduled to be held at Hyde Park Colombo.{{cite web|url=http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=63996|title=The Island|website=island.lk|access-date=18 October 2012|archive-date=21 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021032110/http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=63996|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=25787:hundreds-brave-rainly-weather-to-attend-fonseka-rally&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=547|title=Times Online – Daily Online Edition of The Sunday Times Sri Lanka|website=sundaytimes.lk|access-date=18 October 2012|archive-date=18 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018155110/http://sundaytimes.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=25787:hundreds-brave-rainly-weather-to-attend-fonseka-rally&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=547|url-status=dead}}

Also in the same month, party deputy leader Arjuna Ranatunga resigned from the party.{{Cite web |url=http://www.ceylontoday.lk/16-16570-news-detail-mp-ranatunga-resigns-from-dp.html |title=Ceylon Today | MP Ranatunga resigns from DP |access-date=16 November 2012 |archive-date=21 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150121034508/http://www.ceylontoday.lk/16-16570-news-detail-mp-ranatunga-resigns-from-dp.html |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web|url=http://www.dailymirror.lk/news/23354-arjuna-resigns-from-sfs-party.html|title=Daily Mirror – Sri Lanka Latest Breaking News and Headlines|access-date=16 November 2012|archive-date=12 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121112050800/http://www.dailymirror.lk/news/23354-arjuna-resigns-from-sfs-party.html?|url-status=live}}

In November 2012, party chairman Jayantha Ketagoda resigned from the position.{{cite web | url=http://www.mirror.lk/news/3171-ketagoda-too-to-leave-fonseka | title=Mirror.lk | access-date=16 November 2012 | archive-date=19 February 2013 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130219014925/http://www.mirror.lk/news/3171-ketagoda-too-to-leave-fonseka | url-status=live }} Fonseka extended his support to Maithripala Sirisena in the 2015 Sri Lankan presidential election. Following his victory, President Sirisena gave Fonseka a complete presidential pardon and acquitted of all charges on 22 January 2015, restoring his civic rights. The pardon restored his military rank and decorations as well as his pension. He also requested reinstatement of his parliamentary seat which was taken by a member of his party after he lost it due to his conviction.{{Cite web|url=http://www.itnnews.lk/?p=61298|title=Sarath Fonseka goes to Court seeking his Parliamentary seat|access-date=22 March 2015|archive-date=2 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402145851/http://www.itnnews.lk/?p=61298|url-status=live}}[https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2015/01/25/fea02.asp It was the people who won – General Sarath Fonseka] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010064959/https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2015/01/25/fea02.asp |date=10 October 2024 }}

by Ranil Wijayapala, Sunday Observer. Retrieved 15 June 2015

Fonseka joined the United National Party on 30 June 2016 and was appointed the chief organiser of Kalaniya seat of the party.{{cite web|url=http://www.adaderana.lk/news/35874/minister-sarath-fonseka-obtains-unp-membership|title=Minister Sarath Fonseka obtains UNP membership|website=adaderana.lk|access-date=30 June 2016|archive-date=2 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160702011705/http://www.adaderana.lk/news/35874/minister-sarath-fonseka-obtains-unp-membership|url-status=live}}

On 22 March 2015, Fonseka was promoted to the newly created rank of Field Marshal by President Maithripala Sirisena.[http://www.army.lk/detailed.php?NewsId=9473 Field Marshal Fonseka Salutes Memories of Fallen War Heroes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150327233431/http://www.army.lk/detailed.php?NewsId=9473 |date=27 March 2015 }}, army.lk. Retrieved 29 March 2015{{Cite web|url=http://documents.gov.lk/files/egz/2015/3/1906-51_E.pdf|title=Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka|access-date=5 April 2017|archive-date=10 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210510182653/http://www.documents.gov.lk/files/egz/2015/3/1906-51_E.pdf|url-status=live}} He is currently ranked 5th in the table of precedence in Sri Lanka.{{Cite web |url=http://www.moha.gov.lk/web/images/downloads/National_Items/Table_of_Precedence.pdf |title=Table of Precedence |access-date=28 October 2021 |archive-date=28 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028065148/http://www.moha.gov.lk/web/images/downloads/National_Items/Table_of_Precedence.pdf |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web |date=11 March 2015 |title=Field Marshal post with Lifetime cabinet powers for General Sarath Fonseka |url=https://www.lankaenews.com/news/332/en |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241202133733/http://www.lankaenews.com/news/332/en |archive-date=2024-12-02 |access-date=2025-05-25 |website=lankaenews.com |language=en}}

Field Marshal Fonseka, contested the 2015 general election from his Democratic Party from Colombo district, however he was not elected neither was his party able to secure a seat during the election.{{cite web|url=http://www.sinhayanews.com:80/field-marshal-sarath-fonseka-fails-obtain-parliament-seat-sri-lankan-general-election-2015|title=Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka Fails To Obtain Parliament Seat In The Sri Lankan General Election 2015|website=sinhayanews.com|access-date=21 April 2019|archive-date=20 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150920110557/http://www.sinhayanews.com:80/field-marshal-sarath-fonseka-fails-obtain-parliament-seat-sri-lankan-general-election-2015|url-status=usurped}}

In February 2016, Sarath Fonseka signed a collective agreement between the Democratic Party (DP) and the ruling United National Party (UNP). The MoU was signed by Fonseka as the leader of the Democratic Party and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as the UNP leader. The two leaders exchanged agreements for the Democratic Party to join the United National Front (UNF), the coalition led by the UNP.{{cite news|title=Secret behind Fonseka's re-entry|url=http://www.ceylontoday.lk/42-117661-news-detail-secret-behind-fonsekas-re-entry.html|work=Ceylon Today|date=14 February 2016|access-date=14 February 2016|archive-date=15 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160215235047/http://www.ceylontoday.lk/42-117661-news-detail-secret-behind-fonsekas-re-entry.html|url-status=live}}

On 9 February 2016, he took the oath as a member of parliament for the seat vacated by the death of M. K. A. D. S. Gunawardana,{{cite news|title=Fonseka takes oath as MP|url=http://www.adaderana.lk/news/34116/fonseka-takes-oath-as-mp|work=Ada Derrana|date=9 February 2016|access-date=9 February 2016|archive-date=20 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200820085748/http://www.adaderana.lk/news/34116/fonseka-takes-oath-as-mp|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Right on Field Marshal!|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/160214/columns/right-on-field-marshal-182838.html|work=Sunday Times|date=14 February 2016|access-date=14 February 2016|archive-date=10 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010071129/https://www.sundaytimes.lk/160214/columns/right-on-field-marshal-182838.html|url-status=live}} and on 25 February, he was appointed Cabinet Minister of Regional Development by President Sirisena which he led till May 2018, when he was appointed Cabinet Minister of Wildlife and Sustainable Development.{{cite news|title=Sarath Fonseka sworn in as Cabinet Minister|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/96562/sarath-fonseka-sworn-in-as-cabinet-minister|date=25 February 2016|access-date=29 February 2016|archive-date=28 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160228081545/http://www.sundaytimes.lk/96562/sarath-fonseka-sworn-in-as-cabinet-minister|url-status=live}}

During the 2018 Sri Lankan constitutional crisis, he lost his ministerial post and was not reappointed by President Sirisena at the end of the crisis. During the crisis, Sirisena had claimed that the name of Fonseka had come up in the investigation of the CID but was suppressed.{{cite web |title=President says plot linked to Fonseka was game changer |url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/181028/news/president-says-plot-linked-to-fonseka-was-game-changer-317875.html |website=The Sunday Times Sri Lanka |access-date=11 November 2018 |archive-date=26 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126085933/http://www.sundaytimes.lk/181028/news/president-says-plot-linked-to-fonseka-was-game-changer-317875.html |url-status=live }}

Following the 2019 Sri Lanka Easter bombings, the UNP led by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe requested President Sirisena to appoint Fonseka as Minister of Law and Order. President Sirisena turned down the request.{{Cite web|url=https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking_news/Minister-of-Law-and-Order-Prez-rejects-request-to-appoint-SF/108-166421|title=Minister of Law and Order – Prez rejects request to appoint SF|website=Daily Mirror|access-date=18 July 2022|archive-date=18 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220718084721/https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking_news/Minister-of-Law-and-Order-Prez-rejects-request-to-appoint-SF/108-166421|url-status=live}}

Fonseka contested presidency again in 2024 as an independent candidate.{{Cite web |title=Sarath Fonseka officially announces candidacy for 2024 Presidential Election |url=https://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=100757 |access-date=4 September 2024 |website=adaderana.lk |language=en |archive-date=2 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241002045152/https://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=100757 |url-status=live }} Following his announcement, he resigned as the chairman of Samagi Jana Balawegaya.{{Cite web |title=Sarath Fonseka resigns as SJB's Chairman |url=https://www.adaderana.lk/news/101102/sarath-fonseka-resigns-as-sjbs-chairman |access-date=4 September 2024 |website=adaderana.lk |language=en |archive-date=10 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010071011/https://www.adaderana.lk/news/101102/sarath-fonseka-resigns-as-sjbs-chairman |url-status=live }} Fonseka was placed in a distant 9th position in the first count of votes with only 22,407 votes, thus eliminating from the race.{{Cite web |title=Sri Lanka Presidential Election 2024 Live Update |url=https://election.newswire.lk/ |access-date=29 September 2024 |website=election.newswire.lk |language=English |archive-date=24 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240924023914/https://election.newswire.lk/ |url-status=live }}

Sarath Fonseka is married to Anoma Indumathi Munasinghe, daughter of D. J. and Eugine Munasinghe of Dematagoda, and has two daughters Aparna and Apsara.{{cite web|url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2007/10/07/spe02.asp|title=All for the love of a soldier|work=Sunday Observer|date=7 October 2007|access-date=20 April 2024|archive-date=10 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241010071012/https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2007/10/07/spe02.asp|url-status=live}}

During his military career, Fonseka received the gallantry medals Rana Wickrama Padakkama with two bars and Rana Sura Padakkama with four bars; the service medals Vishista Seva Vibhushanaya, Uttama Seva Padakkama and the Sri Lanka Armed Services Long Service Medal with a clasp; wound medal Desha Putra Sammanaya with bar; the campaign medals Eastern Humanitarian Operations Medal, Northern Humanitarian Operations Medal, Purna Bhumi Padakkama, North and East Operations Medal with two clasps, Vadamarachchi Operation Medal, and the Riviresa Campaign Services Medal with clasp; and the commemorative medals Republic of Sri Lanka Armed Services Medal, 50th Independence Anniversary Commemoration Medal, Sri Lanka Army 50th Anniversary Medal, President's Inauguration Medal.{{Cite web |date=24 March 2022 |title=Nation Salutes War Veteran, General Sarath Fonseka (Retd) Conferring Field Marshal Rank | Sri Lanka Army |url=https://www.army.lk/news/nation-salutes-war-veteran-general-sarath-fonseka-retd-conferring-field-marshal-rank-0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220324013913/https://www.army.lk/news/nation-salutes-war-veteran-general-sarath-fonseka-retd-conferring-field-marshal-rank-0 |archive-date=24 March 2022 |access-date=5 July 2024 |website=army.lk}}

• Eelam War IV
• Sri Lankan civil war
• Commander of the Army (Sri Lanka)
• Chief of Defence Staff
• White Flag case

{{reflist|group=lower-alpha}}

{{Reflist|30em}}

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{{Sister project links|author=yes|wikt=no|v=no|b=no|n=Category:Sarath Fonseka}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20221106114600/https://www.army.lk/news/lieutenant-general-sarath-fonseka-appointed-new-army-commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka appointed new Army Commander – army.lk]

• [http://www.gensarathfonseka.com/ General Fonseka's Official Website]
• [http://www.hansaya.lk/english/home.html New Democratic Front Official Website]

• [https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2007/10/07/spe02.asp All for the love of a soldier]
• [https://www.flickr.com/photos/sarathfonseka Picture Gallery]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20101208231143/http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gpqpUulSfU3D3CKfaKP0hfnXMwAw Fonseka appointed new Chief of Defence Staff]

• [http://video.dailymirror.lk/videos/204/fonseka-spells-out-his-political-ambitions General Fonseka spells out his political ambitions]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20091221163150/http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=71108 General Fonseka speaks about the “corrupt people]

• [http://www.sundaytimes.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=19598:sarath-fonseka-timeline&catid=106:graphics&Itemid=612/ Timeline of Sarath Fonseka]

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Category:1950 births

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