Former Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ajith Rajapakse has denied allegations that he misused government-provided fuel allocations.

Issuing a statement, Rajapaksa said false information had been circulated on social media and other electronic media platforms with the intention of damaging his reputation, without properly examining the approved procedures governing fuel usage.

He stated that during his tenure, he obtained fuel strictly within the legally entitled allocations and approved limits, and that he possesses all official documents and records relating to the matter.

The former Deputy Speaker also expressed regret that such baseless allegations had been made in the media without conducting a proper investigation.

He further stated that, as there was no suitable official vehicle available for him to perform his duties as Deputy Speaker, he had the option of obtaining a vehicle on a rental basis from an external party.

However, he said that doing so would have incurred a significant cost, and therefore he had acted in a manner that saved the funds that would otherwise have been spent on rental charges.

Rajapaksa emphasized that he performed his duties in accordance with the traditions, laws and regulations applicable to former Speakers and Deputy Speakers, and maintained that he had not engaged in any illegal activity.

Meanwhile, he further stated that he believes the actions against him were carried out with the intention of diverting attention from corruption allegations involving individuals currently holding positions in the government who should be subject to investigation.