Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa responded to President Maithripala Sirisena's lengthy letter with a short reply.

He acknowledges that he has received Sirisena's letter. Rajapaksa refuted all allegations leveled at him and said that he handed over the party to Sirisena days after the election defeat in January.

Rajapaksa also said that he believes Sirisena will accpet the people's mandate after the general election.

Related: Rajapaksa Will Not Be Appointed Prime Minister, Sirisena Informs (SEE FULL LETTER)