Hmm, so you removed an old install based on debs and made a new install, again, based on debs ?
Installs (and uninstalls) based on debs do need to be done as root. My guess is you had and earlier 2.0.8 there that did not get removed completely. The issue with Lazarus on Linux installed from debs relates to the fact that Lazarus is often required to rebuild it self. If you have installed as root, then, obviously, it cannot over write its own files when running as an ordinory user. The designers came up with a clever solution that works most of the time but is really messy underneath.
When a root installed Lazarus rebuilds itself, it saves the new files in a hidden directory in your home directory. The startlazarus command spots the newer build there and uses those files rather than the 'official' ones origionally installed. So, most users who install from debs only use those files for the first time that fire lazarus up. All the action is happening in that local hidden directory.
My guess is you have not cleaned out completely the hidden directory - thats where the 2.0.8 files causing you grief are hiding. Unless you have a complicated lazarus setup, I believe you should remove that hidden directory before reinstalling Lazarus. By default, its called ~/.lazarus from memory.
And, incidentally, as Handoko hinted at, far better to install Lazarus yourself from source. Its on the wiki ...
Davo