New East Commander Assumes Office

Major General Santhusitha Pananwala took over duties as the new Commander, Security Forces - East (SF-E) on Tuesday (2) after a brief ceremony, comprised of both religious observances and military traditions.

The new Security Forces Commander, East was accorded a Guard Turnout plus a Guard of Honour by soldiers at Security Force Headquarters - East (SFHQ-E) on his arrival at the premises.

Major General Pananwala inaugurated his office amid religious observances, administered by all major religious denominations. Blessings were invoked on the new appointment afterwards before the new Commander lit the traditional oil lamp. On the same occasion he signified the acceptance of the new office by placing his signature in a formal document.

Later on, he planted a sapling in the SFHQ premises as a token of memory and participated in an All Rank tea table where he shared a couple of views with the attendees.

As the final leg of the day’s agenda the newly-appointed SF-E Commander addressed the troops and explained his future roles.

Major General Pananwala served as the General Officer Commanding, 23 Division, prior to this appointment. His predecessor, Major General Nandana Senadeera is to retire from the Army shortly.