Former military officer Major General (retired) Kamal Gunaratne is tipped to be appointed the new Secretary to the Ministry of Defence.

He will replace General Shantha Kottegoda, who was appointed to the position by President Sirisena.

Gunaratne was involved in the final military operations against the LTTE, under the supervision of former Army Commander Sarath Fonseka and Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

Gunaratne was also involved in the political campaign of the new President.