As some individuals questioned the authenticity of the photograph as it was claimed to be edited, FactSeeker investigated the claims.

The book is published by Sayura Publications, and FactSeeker investigated whether Sunanda Deshapriya or Sayura Publications had posted such images on their social media accounts and observed that images of the former president had been posted by Sayura Publications on their official Facebook page.

Sunanda Deshapriya too had shared the photo on his ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) account.

Head of Sayura Publications Nilanta Gamagedara told FactSeeker that former President Sirisena visited the Sayura publications stall at the Colombo International Book Fair to purchase the book, and many people had taken photos with him, confirming that the image circulating was indeed taken at the Book Fair.

FactSeeker also made inquiries with the office of former President where a spokesperson from the office confirmed that the former president posed for this photo with the book “Easter Sunday Attack” at the request of a reader.

FactSeeker also came across several photos showing the former president purchasing the book at the Sayura booth at the Book Fair.

Accordingly, FactSeeker confirms that the photo of former President Maithripala Sirisena holding the book “Easter Sunday Attack” at the Colombo International Book Fair is true.