Rajapakshe defeated : Sirsena new Sri Lanka President
This marks a new chapter in Sri Lanka's history as Rajapkshe, known for his role in wiping out the rebel LTTE, was under heavy criticism for continuing a regime of authoritarianism, nepotism and corruption.
63-year-old Maithripala Sirisena, a one-time ally of Rajapkshe, severed ties with the outgoing President only in November last year and finally scuttled his bid to come to power for the third time.
He is expected to be sworn in at Colombo's Independence Square at 6:00 p.m. local time, report said.
US Secretary of State John Kerry welcomed the successful election and commended Rajapaksa for accepting the verdict of the nation's 15 million voters.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra congratulated Sirisena and described his victory as 'historic.'
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