In Sri Lanka, the removal of Director General of Customs has turned into a political controversy as customs union remain on strike for the fourth straight day.<br />''  <br />'' Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera defended the new appointment saying that cabinet had the power to appoint efficient officers who could implement the state's policies. <br />''  <br />'' However, leader of opposition Mahinda Rajapaksa in a statement said that customs functioning has been crippled due to government's shortsighted actions and the strike by employees is a direct result of the ongoing political interference.<br />''  <br />'' The Customs unions launched a strike on Wednesday over the appointment of a retired navy officer as the Director General of Customs. Government changed the orders to appoint another official but unions are opposed to removal of previous DG Ms. P.S.M Charles.<br />