He is a feared former defence official accused of condoning rape, torture and shadowy disappearances of critics, but to many Sri Lankans, the opposition's presidential candidate is the best choice to protect the South Asian island nation after attacks that killed over 250 people this year.
The younger brother and powerful right hand of a former strongman, Nandasena Gotabaya Rajapaksa is seen as a hero by supporters for bringing a bloody end to a decadeslong civil war in 2009 and has cast himself as Sri Lanka's protector.
"I will accept responsibility for your safety, and the safety of your children and your loved ones," Gotabaya said as he launched his campaign this month. "I will never allow extremist terrorism in this country."
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