People did not have the freedom for expression back when people were inflicted with the fear of war, says the former Defense Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

He stated this joining a religious event held in Piliyandala yesterday (27) at the Sri Sumanarama Viharaya in Batakeththara, Piliyandala to unveil the Samadhi Buddha Statue established at the temple premises.

The event was attended by several public representatives of the Joint Opposition.

Addressing the event, Gotabaya Rajapaksa stated that, although many people claim him to be responsible for the assault on journalist Keith Noyahr, the CID will duly uncover accurate information on the incident.

The attempts of the L.T.T.E to assassinate him in the past have failed, and that law and order prevailed in the country during the administration of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, he further stated.

Moreover, terrorism was eradicated, underworld activities and drug menace was curbed at the time, Rajapaksa said.

However, the law is unable to curb the occurrence of crimes at present; the public criticizes what they experience, and they should recollect the person who truly liberated the country, former Defense Secretary added.