Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Mahinda Rajapaksa Was Strongly Opposed To Casinos As MP

October 24, 2013

President Mahinda Rajapaksa was vehemently opposed to casinos and gaming centres as a Parliamentarian, believing they would make Sri Lanka a hub for prostitution, homosexuality and even AIDS.

In a speech made in August 1993, SLFP MP Mahinda Rajapaksa said casino kings fleeced the public making millions and transforming their black money into dollars.

“In the recent past casinos have become entertainment. Joschim was able to appear in photos with high profile politicians. People like Joschim worked to bring casinos and prostitutes from Thailand to Sri Lanka as a business,” Rajapaksa said, referring to a gaming mogul in Sri Lanka in the 90s.

“It is under these circumstances that prostitution, homosexuality and AIDS can come to this country,” he is reported to have said.