Sri Lanka president to free General Sarath Fonseka

Sri Lanka's President Mahinda Rajapakse has ordered the release of the jailed former army chief, Sarath Fonseka.

A presidential spokesman told the BBC he would be freed on Monday after formalities were completed.

Mr Fonseka was arrested two years ago after standing against Mr Rajapakse for the presidency.

Monday is also the day that doctors say he can be discharged from the hospital, where he has been receiving treatment for a respiratory problem.

The BBC's Charles Haviland reports from Sri Lanka.