By Dilrukshi Handunnetti
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's new President Maithripala Sirisena called for a national unity government on Sunday, only two days after taking office.
Addressing the nation at the historic Sacred Temple of the Tooth in the central city of Kandy, Sirisena called on all parties represented in parliament to join him and also pledged to transfer the strong executive power held by the president to the parliament, cabinet and judiciary.
At least 15 members of the opposition Sri Lanka Freedom Party, previously led by former president Mahinda Rajapaksa who was unseated in Thursday's election, immediately pledged their support to Sirisena and voted for him to replace Rajapaksa as party chief.
He promised to protect the rights of ethnic and religious minorities and create a culture that respects diversity.
Sirisena also reiterated plans to depoliticize Sri Lankan institutions combined with a strong economic policy.
Sirisena took office after a surprise victory, replacing Rajapaksa who until November seemed set for an unprecedented third term in power.
Rajapaksa was accused of presiding over war crimes, nepotism and autocratic rule.
