“Their intention is to reverse our hard earned gains and drive the nation towards a state of anarchy,” he warned.
Speaking at a public gathering in Elpitiya organized by the Chief Organizer of Elpitiya Geetha Kumarasinghe, yesterday (Dec. 15), the President said it was the duty of everybody in the country to safeguard the hard won freedom, peace and harmony without falling into the clutches of such powers.
President Rajapaksa recalled that in 2005 he had sought the people’s consent to rid the country of terrorism and had done so within four years. The President said he had next sought a mandate to safeguard the hard won peace and usher development which was lagging behind due to the prolonged conflict.
After achieving the above, the President said, he was seeking a mandate for a third term from the people to safeguard the hard earned stability achieved and usher in a prosperous nation and a disciplined society for the benefit of the future generation.
He predicted that in the future the county’s social and economic development will reach new heights and poverty would be totally eradicated.
“Educational reforms will continue to make learning relevant to modern day needs. Infrastructure development too will be further expanded,” he promised.
In future, the President said, that there would not be any lack of jobs and improved education will pave way for a work force consisting skilled professionals in varied fields. President Rajapaksa further said he had allocated funds from the last budget to provide viable jobs for a further 150,000 youth in the state sector and this would be implemented in the near future.
The President participated at several public meetings in the Galle District on Monday (15). First he worshipped the Bodhiya near the Bentota Bridge and held religious observances. The Maha Sanga chanted Seth Pirith and invoked blessings on the President.
Thereafter the President participated at a public meeting at Karandeniya Uragas junction organized by the SLFP chief organizor of the electorate Minister Gunarathna Weerakoon.
Large crowds attended these public rallies.
Senior Minister Piyasena Gamage, Minister Gunarathna Weerakoon, Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakkody, Southern Province Chief Minister Shan Wijayalal de Silva, Depauty Minister Nishantha Muthuhetti, Southern Provincial Councillor Geetha Kumarasinghe were among the participants. (KH)
