Sri Lanka Tourist Board Chairman Udaya Nanayakkara yesterday called it quits from his post at the board. Tourism Ministry Additional Secretary George Michael was appointed as Acting Chairman.

Nanayakkara in his letter of resignation referred to have experienced what he claimed as “hostility caused by the Secretary of the Ministry which is of habitual nature.”

Stating that the SLTB comprised of a highly motivated team and a “reorganized and performing” better than a private sector organization.

He assumed duties as Chairman of the SLTB during the former Tourism Minister’s tenure Anura Bandaranaike in 2005.

Meanwhile, Michael who was appointed acting Chairman was initiated yesterday following a decision made by the new Minister Milinda Moragoda, until such time a new Chairman is appointed.

Midst these new developments the new Tourism Minister Moragoda assumed duties yesterday at the Tourism Ministry along with his Deputy Faizer Mustapha.

Minister Moragoda addressing the ministry staffers asserted that he was not interested in playing party politics in carrying out his duties.

In addition he called all at the Ministry to carry out their duties as public servants irrespective of party differences.