SINGAPORE – Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was denied any privileges, immunities or hospitality in Singapore.
Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said in a written response to a parliamentary question on Monday (August 1), “In general, the Singapore government grants privileges, immunities and hospitality to former heads of state or government. not.
“As a result, former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa was denied any privileges, immunities or hospitality.”
Mr Rajapaksa arrived in Singapore on a Saudia flight from the Maldives on 14 July and was issued a 14-day visit pass.
His visit pass was then extended for another 14 days and will expire on August 11th.
He fled Sri Lanka amid widespread protests against his government as the deepening economic crisis and soaring inflation impacted prices of basic necessities such as food and fuel.
Shortly after arriving in Singapore, Rajapaksa submitted his resignation, which was formally announced by the Sri Lankan parliament on 15 July.
His ally and former prime minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, was elected as the new president by parliamentarians on July 20.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said in response to media inquiries last week that visitors from Sri Lanka entering Singapore for social visits are usually issued short-stay passes for up to 30 days. rice field.
Those who need to extend their stay here can apply for an extension online, and the application will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, the ICA added.
