NPP News

(-2025.07.06 – Colombo-)

• Awards of Rs. 100,000 each presented to 361 G.C.E. Advanced Level high achievers from the Southern Province

• President’s Fund Transformed into a People-Centric Initiative Under the current Government

– Min. Sunil Handunnetti

The Presidential Fund has initiated a programme to recognise outstanding district-level performers in the G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) examinations over the past two years (2023 and 2024). This morning (6), a ceremony was held at the Rabindranath Tagore Auditorium of the University of Ruhuna to acknowledge students from the Southern Province who demonstrated excellence in the G.C.E. A/L examination.

During the event, a total of 361 students, 10 from each of the six subject streams across Galle, Matara and Hambantota districts for both the 2023 and 2024 A/L examinations, received an incentive of one hundred thousand rupees (Rs. 100,000) each. The President’s Fund allocated 36.1 million rupees for this purpose. This initiative is set to be rolled out across all districts in due course.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President, stated that following the new government’s ascension to power and under the directives of President Anura Kumara Disanayake, the President’s Fund has been streamlined to expand its services and enhance transparency. He highlighted that past discrepancies have been rectified, ensuring that benefits now reach those who genuinely deserve them. The Secretary to the President also mentioned ongoing efforts to digitalise the fund and decentralise its services regionally to improve efficiency.

Dr. Kumanayake further emphasised that education is the primary tool for children to succeed in life. He urged the students to make the most of these benefits, excel in their education, and become good citizens, thereby contributing to the nation’s triumph.

Mr. Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, stated that the current government has successfully transformed what was once “the President’s Fund” into “the People’s Fund,” making it an institution that provides services for the well-being of the public.

Minister Handunnetti noted that previously, there were reports of the President’s Fund being misused for the medical treatments and travel of political henchmen. He asserted that it has now been transformed into a public welfare institution.

He also stressed that students who advance through the free education system with the help of these scholarships have a responsibility. Minister Handunnetti reminded them, as future leaders, to fulfil their duties to the country and its citizens without fail. He urged them to commit to not engaging in theft or fraud against the country or its people, especially after benefiting from public tax money for their education.

Mrs. Saroja Savithri Paulraj, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, expressed that providing children with the “wings of education” to explore the world is a key priority for the current government and that education can foster humane citizens.

The Minister stated that education was a central focus of the current government’s election campaign, and the President is actively working towards this. She added that the President’s Fund has started providing scholarships to academically gifted children, reflecting the government’s aspiration to empower children through education.

Mrs. Paulraj further pointed out that many of the attendees at the event would likely occupy significant positions in Sri Lanka or globally. She cautioned that if they do not become humane citizens, the substantial investment in their education would not yield its full benefits.

Miss Sithmini Madanayake, a student from Southlands College, Galle, delivered the vote of thanks. She stated that this programme presents a valuable opportunity for economically disadvantaged students to successfully pursue higher education and achieve success in life. She expressed immense gratitude to the President and the President’s Fund for this initiative.

Among those present were Members of Parliament L.M. Abeywickrama, Lal Premnath and Aravinda Senarath; Roshan Gamage, Senior Additional Secretary to the President and Secretary of the President’s Fund; Senior Professor P.A. Jayantha, Vice-Chancellor of Ruhunu University; Chandana Tilakaratne, District Secretary of Matara; W.A. Dharmasiri, District Secretary of Galle; and Bimal Silva, District Secretary of Hambantota. Also in attendance were senior officials from the President’s Fund, government officials, heads of security forces, parents and students.

(-2025.07.04 – Colombo-)

• Rural communities must be empowered with economic opportunities and recognized as stakeholders in the economy.

• The objective of the “Prajashakthi” initiative is to integrate the state mechanism, public officials and citizens into a unified system.

– President

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized that no matter the extent of economic growth reflected in statistics, if the advantages of this growth do not extend to the rural communities, then such growth holds no significance. The President further stated that while it is important to achieve national economic growth, it is equally essential to expand the economy in a way that creates opportunities for rural communities and makes them active participants in the economic process. He stated that this is a responsibility of the government.

The President made these remarks today (04) attending the launch of the “Prajashakthi” National Programme held at Temple Trees.

The “Prajashakthi” National Programme has been launched as a key initiative of the current government, aiming to empower communities and ensure the fair distribution of economic benefits across society.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, Mr. Sampath Manthrinayake, welcomed participants to the programme. The Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake outlined the objectives of the initiative.

Following this, the Chairman of the “Prajashakthi” National Operations Committee and Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, Dr. Upali Pannilage, introduced the national movement.

The official “Prajashakthi” website was also launched by President Anura Kumara Disanayake during the event.

The Full Text of the Speech delivered by President Anura Kumara Disanayake:

A few years ago, our country experienced a severe economic collapse. While there were various contributing factors to this collapse, we must not forget that ordinary people in rural areas, who played no part in its cause, endured the greatest hardships.

They were affected in areas such as food affordability, access to quality healthcare, educational opportunities and the development of rural infrastructure. Therefore, the present government has both a responsibility and a challenge to uplift rural lives. This is a duty that cannot be abandoned.

One of the top priorities of our government is to eradicate rural poverty as a key step towards national progress.

Today, we have managed to bring the economy to a relatively stable state. We have maintained the dollar’s value close to Rs. 300, steadily raised foreign reserves, directed treasury revenue to meet our goals and reduced interest rates to single digits. These are notable indicators of economic stability. We have also been able to gradually restore investor confidence in the country.

Numerous stalled projects have been successfully renegotiated and restarted. In addition, we have received a substantial number of proposals for new investment projects, many of which were approved at the recent Cabinet meeting. Therefore, our focus is now on new investments and development projects. Through these effective and results-driven investments, we can simultaneously achieve economic stability and economic growth.

However, if these economic benefits do not flow to the rural population, then even achieving growth in statistical terms is insufficient. This is why we must pursue economic growth on one hand and economic expansion on the other. If rural people are not given economic opportunities and included as stakeholders in the economy, they will become marginalised. Our core approach must therefore be to expand the economy and integrate rural communities into it.

This is possible only if the current rural economic activities are transformed into more productive, efficient and profitable ventures. These sectors should be developed to become thriving businesses. Widening their access to economic opportunities is also vital. Hence, we are prioritising the creation of new economic avenues for the rural population, making them active players in the economy.

Poverty has gone beyond being an economic issue and become a deep-rooted social problem. Poor communities have become isolated from society. Therefore, eliminating rural poverty is one of the government’s primary responsibilities. Education plays a key role in this. There is a direct correlation between poverty and lack of education. Thus, we must expand educational opportunities further. Despite all efforts, every society has a segment of people who will face difficulties. Even in so-called developed nations, such communities exist. A welfare system is required to support these groups.

Welfare is not inherently a bad tool. If a population is vulnerable at a given time, it is the government’s responsibility to protect them. However, welfare has often been misused, turning into a political tool. This has led to growing criticism of such programmes due to their politicisation.

Our policy under the National People’s Power government is to provide targeted welfare. Assistance must be given to the right people for the right reasons. I believe the government holds this responsibility and society must also understand its importance. In our society, there is a belief that anything given by the state must be received by all. That is a mistaken belief. Our state is not built on such a culture of entitlement. Our culture is to protect those who need protection. Because of distortions in past practices, those who don’t need aid often compete to obtain it, making it harder to support those who truly do.

We must therefore foster a new culture. People must be self-aware enough to recognise whether they truly deserve government support. Even if you have the ability, the person next door mat doesn’t have that ability. It is essential to cultivate a sense of responsibility to assist others. But today’s mentality is to claim whatever is available, regardless of whether one needs it or not. This is the reason we strive to create a strong data system, ensuring that support is provided solely to those who truly require it.

However, we all know that a society cannot rely forever on welfare programmes. There will always be a need for welfare systems, but they must not serve the same individuals or communities indefinitely. Others too must be enabled to become contributors to the economy.

Significant government funds have been expended for this purpose. Approximately, Rs. 230 billion has been allocated solely for the ‘Aswesuma’ programme. Large sums of money have also been spent on other aid programmes. However, have these funds reached the targeted communities? Have the intended benefits been realised from these funds? The answer is no.

Various international organisations implement aid programmes in this country. Looking at these, more than 50% of the expenditure goes towards establishing the mechanism for delivering the aid. An official waits to see how they can personally benefit from a project once it is received. They have their job, but the project is not within their purview. They then claim that an allowance is required to implement the project. Consequently, a substantial portion of these aid funds is spent on the aid delivery mechanism rather than reaching the intended beneficiaries. Furthermore, a significant amount has been spent on training within this mechanism. These practices must cease. As a government and as state officials, you have a responsibility to ensure that aid reaches the targeted communities.

We assure you that we will absolutely not allow any misuse of these funds. An operation must be launched to ensure that aid reaches those who are deserving.

Similarly, there is a tendency for every Ministry to believe they must provide something. However, based on a very accurate data system, it should be determined what should be provided and for what purpose. But what is happening now is not in that manner. Every institution and department is inclined to provide aid. Yet, all aid flowing to rural communities and programmes aimed at empowering their economies must be integrated. A large portion of our aid has been provided merely for subsistence. It has not succeeded in improving the living standards of these people. That is why an integrated operation is necessary. We are launching the ‘Prajashakthi’ programme as that operation. It is a targeted operation. The programme must be structured down to the Divisional Secretariat level.

Currently, a significant administrative structure has been built. I do not believe a child will be born without a birth certificate anymore. When they reach the appropriate age, they obtain an identity card. In the next two years, we will move towards a digitisation mechanism. So, what is the responsibility of the lowest administrative unit in this mechanism? The responsibility of the lower administrative unit is to understand the nature of its unit and to create a plan to advance that unit based on its characteristics. We must advance the Divisional Secretariat from this point onwards. A programme should be prepared for that. There is a need to spend money there and we are prepared for it.

I also acknowledge that our state mechanism is largely dilapidated. If you consider all the vehicles owned by state officials, they are all more than 15 years old. More than 50% of the buses on the road are vehicles unfit for road use. The computers in offices are significantly outdated. The systems in our institutions have not been updated. Buildings are deteriorating. From every angle, we have a dilapidated state mechanism. We come to the office like ordinary villagers. That is the honest truth. In the last budget, salaries were increased and necessary support was provided to human resources.

Therefore, in the upcoming budget, we will work to build the physical resources of the state mechanism. Relative to building physical resources, we will introduce new software systems and modernise the state mechanism. However, this is for the benefit of the citizens. If, within that modernised state, the same old person is sitting in the old chair, there is no benefit. Therefore, within this modernised state mechanism, we need a new public servant.

This is the only way we can overcome this challenge. Otherwise, if we scatter, thinking this is a political task, a job for the political authority, or for the Grama Niladhari , the Development Officer, or the Divisional Secretary, it cannot be achieved. To do this, an unyielding, integrated operation involving both the political authority and the state mechanism is required. The objective of the ‘Prajashakthi’ programme is to bring together the state mechanism, state officials and citizens into an integrated framework. Without this, nothing can be accomplished. Our aim is not merely to maintain the existing state; if that were the case, the current situation would suffice.

To rebuild a fallen state, the political authority, the state mechanism and the citizens must be brought together into an integrated operation. Therefore, there is a community that has lost economic opportunities in this fallen state. An integrated operation is needed to create economic opportunities for that community. I urge all of us to work together to make this ‘Prajashakthi’ project a success.

– Dr. Upali Pannilage, Convenor of the ‘Prajashakthi’ National Policy Council and Chairman of the National Operations Committee, Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community empowerment –

When discussing poverty in our country, the village holds a special place. Not only in Sri Lanka, but internationally, especially when looking at Asia, Africa and Latin American regions, we cannot discuss poverty by forgetting the village. That is why the United Nations declared July 6th as World Rural Development Day.

Although rural poverty in our country has been a subject of discussion for decades, various attempts have been made to change it. However, for example, looking at the statistics for the year 2000, 1.1 million people in our country were dependent on aid. By 2010, this number had increased to 1.5 million. By the end of 2024, the number of people dependent on aid had reached close to 1.8 million.

These statistics confirm that despite numerous programmes implemented to eradicate poverty, the impoverished community in our country is growing steadily. Although the world’s population is rapidly urbanising, nearly 79% of our country’s total population lives in rural or estate areas. Therefore, as the National People’s Power government, when planning our policies, we made the eradication of rural poverty a central theme.

Before launching this programme, we thoroughly studied the weaknesses of the poverty eradication programmes implemented in our country. We designed this programme by addressing those weaknesses and providing answers to the question: How can we truly eradicate poverty in our country? Primarily, we expect to achieve several objectives through this programme.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya; Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development; Wasantha Samarasinghe, Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development; Professor Chandana Abeyratne, Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government; Samantha Viddyarathna, Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure; Saroja Paulraj, Minister of Women and Child Affairs; Mahinda Jayasinghe, Deputy Minister of Labour; along with other Ministers and MPs; Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Governor of the Central Bank; Provincial Governors; Ministry Secretaries; state officials; and representatives from international organisations were among those who attended the occasion.

(-2025.06.17 – China-)

At the invitation of the Communist Party of China, Tilvin Silva, General Secretary of the JVP, who has been frequently visiting China recently, discussed with Liu Jianchao, Head of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Communist Party of China, along with its high-ranking leaders.

Liu Jianchao emphasised that no one can damage the long-standing friendship between the JVP and the Communist Party of China and that no one will be allowed to damage that friendship.

Liu Jianchao stated that China is ready to assist with the country’s development program at any time and that China is not ready to take measures that undermine the sovereignty of any country.

At that time, JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva stated that the friendship between China and Sri Lanka and between the JVP and the Communist Party of China had further developed during the visit of JVP leader and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake earlier this year. He also emphasised that this friendship would further develop during the visit he and his group are making.

He also stated that they will act by the understandings reached between China and Sri Lanka and that they are grateful for the support China is providing to Sri Lanka and look forward to that support in the future.

During this visit to China, he expressed his satisfaction with the way China has been working to build China, from former leader Chairman Mao Zedong to Xi Jinping, and stated that it is a victory for the Communist Party of China that China is advancing Marxism in its unique way.

During this visit, the experiences gained through the studies conducted through the party schools and the way the village has been built can greatly contribute to the future development of Sri Lanka, emphasised Tilvin Silva, General Secretary of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna.

The meeting was attended by Sun Haiyan, Deputy Head of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Communist Party of China, and a group from the Foreign Affairs Department of the Communist Party of China, while the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna was represented by Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara, Deputy Minister of National Integration Munir Mulaffar, Jaffna District Parliamentarian A.M. Jegadeswaran, Matale District Parliamentarian Deepthi Wasalage, and Gampaha District Parliamentarian Dharmapriya Wijesinghe.

(-2025.06.13 – German-)

• Let us all unite to build a better country

– Says President during meeting with Sri Lankan Diaspora in German

President Anura Kumara Disanayake said the National People’s Power government was formed with the united will of all the nation’s people, transcending ethnic and religious divides, with the paramount objective of making Sri Lanka a better state. He firmly stated that he would not allow the expectations placed upon the government by the Sri Lankan people to be shattered in any way.

The President made these remarks yesterday (13) afternoon during a meeting with the Sri Lankan community residing in Germany. A large gathering of Sri Lankan entrepreneurs, investors and professionals based in Germany participated in the event, welcoming the President with great warmth.

Addressing the gathering, President Disanayake noted that a new political culture has now been established within Sri Lanka. He emphasised that, for the first time, a government has been created where the will of the people and the will of the rulers have become one. He affirmed that the government would continue its programme to fulfil the expectations of both the country and its people. The President further remarked that while other adversarial groups might set aside their differences and unite amidst progressive political efforts, it must not be forgotten that their unity stems not from national interest, but from a desire to conceal their own corruption, fraud and crimes.

President Disanayake gratefully acknowledged the significant contribution made by the Sri Lankan community in Germany towards the National People’s Power government’s victory in the last Presidential Election. He invited them, saying, “Let us all join together with renewed determination and commitment to rebuild the nation moving forward.”

Addressing the Sri Lankan community in Germany further, the President added: “I have visited Germany on several previous occasions and met the Sri Lankan community in this manner. Many of those faces remain in my memory. On every such occasion, we appealed to unite and form a government to rescue our country from the path of destruction it was traversing. The people of the country entrusted us with power during the last Presidential Election and the subsequent Parliamentary Election. The expatriate Sri Lankans provided immense strength in securing this mandate. Therefore, I first extend my gratitude for the contribution you made towards establishing the National People’s Power government.

What kind of victory is this that we achieved? Our country had been navigating an economic path that was highly destructive for a long period. Consequently, the people granted us their vote to strengthen the country’s economy. Furthermore, they voted for us with the expectation of establishing corruption-free governance and ensuring punishment for those who committed fraud and corruption. There was also a prevailing view that the rule of law must be established equally for everyone within the country. Moreover, politics itself had long divided our nation. Hence, the people harboured an expectation to create national unity in place of this divided nation. Thus, the National People’s Power government was formed not for the personal desires of the people, but for the common aspirations of the country and its people. This government was built upon the collective resolve to make this nation a better state.

For the first time in Sri Lanka’s history, a government has been formed with the blessings and consent of all the people living in the North, East, hill country and South, irrespective of Sinhala, Tamil, or Muslim differences. Previously, leaders were chosen based on specific provinces. However, all that has now ended. Furthermore, considering the results of the Parliamentary Election, we have formed a government with the largest parliamentary majority in Sri Lanka’s history. The people have completed their part in granting power. That phase is over. Now, while we bear responsibility as rulers, the people also bear a responsibility regarding how we progress collectively.

You are aware that when we assumed government, our country had formally declared bankruptcy. Consequently, as a bankrupt state, we faced the challenge of reaching an agreement with our creditor nations. It is unthinkable for a bankrupt country to embark on a new economic journey. Therefore, we first needed to reach an agreement with our creditor nations. Accordingly, we successfully concluded the debt restructuring programme on December 15th last year. This marks a very significant economic turning point. Without it, contemplating the future of our country’s economy today would be impossible.

Subsequently, the challenge we faced was restarting stalled projects. At that time, work on the Kadawatha-Mirigama Expressway had halted. Similarly, the construction of the Katunayake Airport had stalled. In this manner, 11 projects initiated by the Chinese government were suspended. During my visit to China, I discussed this matter with the Chinese President and other leaders. Consequently, we were able to restart a significant number of the stalled projects, and agreements are also in place to initiate a substantial number of new projects. A country that had stopped is now beginning to run again. Previously, investors wouldn’t even glance towards our country. However, today those projects have restarted. This is an important turning point.

Additionally, another challenge we faced was building strong international relations. We all know that in this century, no country in the world can afford to live in isolation any longer. The world is interconnected commercially, technologically and economically. Therefore, it is essential to build strong and stable foreign relations with the world’s nations. We have achieved significant victories in this regard. Within a very short time of forming our government, the Prime Minister of our neighbouring country, India, visited Sri Lanka. Similarly, we strengthened relations with China. Furthermore, we are strengthening relations with other nations as well. Favourable foreign relations beneficial to the country and its people are essential to emerge from the crisis we face.

Moreover, it is imperative to increase state revenue. In 2022, our country recorded the lowest state revenue in the entire world. Our revenue had fallen to near 7% of the GDP. This year, we have undertaken the challenge of increasing our revenue to 15.1% of the GDP. That is double the revenue compared to 2022. Without earning revenue for the Treasury, it is impossible to invest, maintain an efficient state service, or provide the services the people require.

Accordingly, we have planned significant revenue targets. There are three main sources of government revenue: the Inland Revenue Department, the Excise Department and the Customs Department. We have set monthly targets for each of those institutions, and we can be happy when we review their progress.

Furthermore, there was an issue with taxes in our country. Income taxes had risen significantly. Approximately, individuals earning one lakh rupees were completely tax exempt, whereas those earning one and a half lakh rupees enjoyed a 72% tax exemption. In this way, we have given a substantial tax exemption to ordinary citizens. But the value added tax is still high. Our goal is to reduce this 18% VAT within our term. Therefore, we are in the process of developing the tax network. To achieve this, we are maximizing our efforts in digitalization. As a result, we are establishing the essential mechanisms for the effective collection of these taxes. We have also devised a plan to phase out cash transactions and shift to software-based systems for conducting transactions. This will enable us to carry out those transactions transparently. Additionally, we have optimized the process for collecting taxes from tax evaders.

Furthermore, our state machinery is notably weak and ineffective. Consequently, it is essential to enhance the efficiency of these institutions. To achieve this, individuals with expertise and skills should be brought into public service. So, we have introduced salary increases to make the public service an attractive place, aiming to draw in skilled and talented individuals to this sector. The state service plays a major role in the development of any country. We have taken steps to restore and rebuild the collapsed public service in the country.

Also, we have approved the recruitment of 30,000 new persons for the public service. These recruitments will be carried out in a very systematic manner according to the requirement. Today, no government institution is permitted to hire staff arbitrarily. A Committee has been appointed for this purpose. We will refrain from making those recruitments today due to political considerations. We can advance this state as it currently stands and then resign when our term concludes. Alternatively, we need to clean the public service with firm determination. We have embraced that challenge.

The Police Department is an important institution in establishing law and order in our country. Nonetheless, the Police Department had adopted characteristics similar to those of organized criminal gangs. Consequently, for the first time in Sri Lanka, the Inspector General of Police concealed himself out of fear of the police. If the National People’s Power government is not formed, he will continue to serve as the Inspector General of Police. We are recruiting new police officers. We are giving them appropriate salaries. We are also ready to punish those who engage in illegal activities. Because we need to establish a Police Department that has earned the trust of the public in our country. The next important institution is the Department of Immigration and Emigration. It is a very important institution for us in terms of protecting the country’s borders. It is important for a country to know who enters our country and who is allowed in. But, what happened recently? The Department of Immigration and Emigration has issued passports to underworld leaders. The underworld leader is currently overseas. When you get a passport, you have to upload a photo. The owner has to come and give his fingerprints. Three passports have been issued for one underworld leader. However, the person who gave the fingerprints was a book seller at the Pettah bus stand. We have arrested him. This department has collapsed to that extent.

Next is the Department of Motor Traffic. Based on the information obtained in the morning, when the officers went there to inspect the relevant officer’s cupboard, they have found over four million rupees. Three individuals were taken into custody.

As a result of the changes implemented in Matara Prison, we relocated the inmates to Agunakolapelessa Prison. Subsequently, we recovered seven handcuffs from Matara Prison. This indicates that the handcuffs were in the possession of the prisoners. A total of 27 keys of handcuffs were discovered including phones, chargers and iPads. This reflects the current state of our country. Furthermore, prison officials have begun granting pardons to inmates. Essentially, what I am conveying is that this is status where our nation once stood. These are important institutions. Customs, Prisons Department, Police Department, Immigration and Emigration Department, these are the backbone of a country. All of that has collapsed. We are supporting the endeavour that will clean up all of this. Our children need responsible officials and institutions. We cannot allow small empires to be built across the country.

We will take steps to eliminate all of these empires. There exists only one state in Sri Lanka. A democratic state chosen by the public. Our objective is to reach that point. That is our current endeavour.

As a political authority, we take pride in our honesty. We do not misappropriate even a single cent of public funds. We do not waste resources. We have established this standard. However, it is insufficient. The public service must also adhere to this principle. We have constantly invited them to come to that point. The people of this country are yearning for justice. The political authority does not have the power to punish crimes. The laws have given that power to the Criminal Investigation Department and the Police Department to investigate a crime or fraud. The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption has been given powers through acts. If there are not enough laws, more will be made. Parliament has that power.

On April 08th, we enacted legislation to confiscate property obtained through illegal means. We will create institutions in accordance with these laws. The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption was located in a small office. Our Ministers are not given houses. A house was given to the Bribery Commission. In the past, Ministers resided in homes. Now there are people looking for Ministers. We have chosen to offer them a highly attractive salary. We will supply them with the required vehicles and amenities. That responsibility lies with the government. We have extended our assistance to the Criminal Investigation Department. The police and the Criminal Investigation Department employ investigative officers to support them in their legal affairs, and we are considering the recruitment of lawyers. Next, these institutions should carry out their investigations. Then, the facts should be reported to the Magistrate’s Court. A large amount of it has already been done. However, it is not enough. Then, the High Court should file an indictment and initiate a case based on those facts. That is the final step. After that, the court has the power to hear the case and impose punishment.

Investigations into recent murders have been concluded in certain cases. The Attorney General’s Department will soon issue indictments. Subsequently, the responsibility moves to the courts. Attorneys from the Attorney General’s Department and the Bribery Commission present their arguments in court. Attorneys present their defence. The court reaches a verdict. Recent rulings have been issued by the court.

In one court case, the judge stated that due to the economic collapse in our country in the past, the people and the nation faced great hardship. The cause of this was corruption, fraud and destruction. Therefore, a lenient punishment is not appropriate, the maximum penalty must be imposed. In another case, the judge inquired why the case was delayed by 10 years. The lawyers from the bribery commission responded that it was because they remained in power for the entire decade.

These instances indicate that every institution has begun to take a certain degree of responsibility seriously. Therefore, I believe we are fulfilling the duties expected of us by the citizens of this country.

Focusing on national unity, for the first time in Sri Lanka’s history, it is significant that the people in the Northern region have placed their trust in us. The defeated parties aim to revive old ethnic politics in Sri Lanka. I saw someone claiming that I was coming to Germany to meet a strong LTTE leader. We cannot allow a resurgence of such politics. If anyone tries to play politics based on racism again in Sri Lanka, even if the existing laws are not sufficient, new laws will be enacted and racism will not be allowed to rise again.

Why? Because our country has suffered immensely due to ethnic conflict. Nearly 30 years of war claimed many lives in the North and South. Bloodshed was so widespread it soaked the soil. Our nation regressed, It was not for any other reason, but because nationalism was used both to gain power and to hold on to it. Therefore, we must never permit a return to ethnic-based politics. We are working to protect and strengthen national unity.

What we want is one country and one Sri Lankan nation a nation that respects differences in language, religion and culture without division. The politics of division must end and we must build the Sri Lankan nation. This is a great and challenging task. Opponents, who once stood in enemy camps, are now uniting against this effort. In the recent local government elections, we won 267 local government bodies. Out of these, we secured 152, a number greater than the combined total of all others. However, even though we won 115 separately, when the scattered groups come together, they outnumber us. But those groups represent different political streams. If we consider political affiliations, the people of that region have chosen us.

However, although we were elected to 115 institutions, we don’t hold the majority in all of them. Take the Kuliyapitiya local council, for example we had around 21 members and the SLPP (Pohottuwa) had just 6. But who is the current chairman? Someone from Pohottuwa. Who helped them gain that position? The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), the United National Party (UNP) and various independents all joined forces to support them. What are they doing with all this support? They are forming a camp against us.

I believe that for the first time in Sri Lanka, this intense political division is developing today. Many governments in history have faced such challenges. When progressive and good political work moves forward, the opposing hostile groups set aside their differences to unite. You may have seen a media discussion where Thissa Attanayake from SJB, the secretary from SLPP, and Thalatha from UNP gathered in one camp. But what have they shown us so far? They are two camps.

But why have they gathered now? Not for anything else, but to protect their past corruption, fraud and crimes. Whether they are in SLPP or SJB, it does not matter to us. If they have committed crimes or fraud, investigations have already been initiated. They know this. So, what should be done? We must set aside our rivalries and unite to counter this emerging trend. Otherwise, politically speaking, an alliance between Sajith Premadasa and Namal Rajapaksa would be damaging to Namal, to Sajith, and to both of them.

But they believe that remaining divided would be disadvantageous either way. So what do they do? They choose to unite against us. They disregard the long-term political harm this alliance may cause them. In the upcoming election, how can there be two presidential candidates? Because now, they have essentially formed a single political camp. They are well aware of this. Yet, in the short term — at this particular moment they believe uniting against the National People’s Power is necessary for their own political survival. This is a move driven purely by their personal need to remain politically relevant.

But remember this, no matter what they do, we will not allow any investigation against corrupt individuals or criminals to be undermined, as mandated by the people’s mandate given to the National People’s Power. Likewise, just as the people placed their trust in us and gave us their mandate, we are fully committed to fulfilling the expectations they have placed in us.

Therefore, for the first time in Sri Lanka, a new politics has emerged. Those present here have hopes for our country. What kind of country do we want? In the past, there was a difference between the expectations of the people and those of the rulers. The people had one set of aspirations, while the rulers had another. But I assure you, for the first time, a government has been formed where your aspirations and ours have become one and the same.

You want corruption to end. We want the same. You want criminals to be punished. We want the same. You want the supremacy of the rule of law. We want the same. You want a better economy for our country. We want the same. What does this mean? The people and the government are not separate, they are united in governance that is being established in Sri Lanka.

This is our opportunity to rebuild our country. I know you have worked tirelessly to create this opportunity. Your voice and dedication have been crucial without them it might not have been possible to establish a strong government. For that, you have carried a great responsibility.

Looking ahead, we have set several clear goals. We aim to make 2025 the year Sri Lanka welcomes the highest number of tourists in its history. We also intend to make it the year with the highest export income ever recorded. Furthermore, we will make 2025 the year in which a government earns the highest revenue in our country’s history. Moreover, we are determined to make this year the one in which the highest number of corrupt individuals in our country’s history are held accountable and brought to justice. We move forward with a sense of integrity and hope. I invite all of you to join hands, work together, and stand firm for this cause!

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijith Herath also addressed the gathering present on this occasion.

(-2025.06.10 – China-)

A meeting between Tilvin Silva, General Secretary of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, and Liu Jie, Governor of Zhejiang Province, China, was held yesterday (09) at the Main People’s Assembly Hall of that province.

This was while Tilvin Silva, General Secretary of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, and a group of people are currently on a visit to that country at the invitation of the Communist Party of China.

During the meeting, the long-standing friendship between Sri Lanka and China and between the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna and the Communist Party of China was discussed in particular.

The future contribution that China and Zhejiang Province can make to strengthen the economy of Sri Lanka was also discussed.

Tilvin Silva, General Secretary of the JVP, emphasized that the National People’s Power Government, which has ended the corrupt regime in Sri Lanka and has been established under the leadership of the JVP, is moving forward with a plan to rapidly develop the country’s economy. The General Secretary mentioned that during that journey, he hopes to receive the support of China as well as the Zhejiang province, which is the same as the achievements made by the Chinese Communist Party during its journey to present-day China.

Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara, Deputy Minister Munir Mulaffar, Jaffna District Parliamentarian A.M. Jegadeswaran, Matale District Parliamentarian Deepthi Wasalage, Gampaha District Parliamentarian Dharmapriya Wijesinghe and a group were present, while Deputy Governor of Zhejiang Province Lu Shen, Director General of the South Asia Region of the International Department of the Communist Party of China Pan Xiu Bin and a group of representatives of the Communist Party of China in Zhejiang Province were also present.

(-2025.06.06 – Colombo-)

The launch of the Cluster Health Information System (CHIS) began at the Thambuttegama Base Hospital. This marks a big step forward in digitizing our country’s healthcare system.

CHIS is introduced under the Primary Healthcare Digitalization Project. This is a major change in how primary healthcare is delivered in Sri Lanka. The official launch took place yesterday (05) at the Thambuttegama Base Hospital.

This system helps us manage resources better. It supports a more organized and complete care service. It also allows us to make quicker decisions based on real data.

CHIS connects hospitals and clinics around a main hospital that offers specialist care. Doctors and nurses in the network can access patient records, X-rays, lab results, prescriptions, and medical history in one place. This helps provide faster and more accurate treatment.

The system was developed with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the Health System Enhancement Project (HSEP). ADB has also funded and supported the technical side of this new health information system.

Hospitals in Galnewa, Eppawala, Thalawa, Rajanganaya Yaya 5 and Yaya 7, Negampaha, Katiyawa, and the Medical Officers of Health offices in Galnewa, Thalawa, and Rajanganaya are now linked with the Thambuttegama Base Hospital through this system.

Our Ministry plans to expand this system to connect all government hospitals across the country in the coming phases. After launching the system, we also toured the Thambuttegama Base Hospital.

The event was joined by Deputy Director General (Medical Services) Dr. Arjuna Thilakaratne, Director (Health Information) Dr. Palitha Karunapema, Director (Primary Health) Dr. Sarathchandra Kumarawansa, Director of North Central Provincial Health Services Dr. Nelum Samaruthilaka, Director of Anuradhapura Regional Health Services Dr. Chandana Kedangamuwa, Head of Health Sector for Sri Lanka and Maldives, ADB, Dr. Kumari Navaratne, Senior Social Development Officer Herath Banda Jayasundara, Director of the Primary Health Services Digitalization Project Dr. Anil Dissanayake, other health staff, and members representing local councils.