“Expenses of presidential secretariat - 2014 Rs. 10,4970 million / estimated cost for 2015 was Rs 95,930 million, but it has been brought down to Rs. 2560 million,” the Minister said.

The Temple Trees where the former president had his office was described a palace for giving "Dansala" (Meals) during the time of various elections. Thousands of people from local politicians, trade unionists, self employees and the people representing various categories such farmers, fishermen, carpenters and etc etc were summoned ostensibly to discuss their grievances with lavish food served to them.

During the past ten years elections in Sri Lanka were held in an scattered manner and every time an election is announced the Temple Trees became the host to serve people from different sectors.