Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said that the National People’s Power (NPP) victory on May 6 should be celebrated in a democratic and peaceful manner. She said the newly elected National People’s Power (NPP) representatives to the Local Government institutions would be fully committed to fulfill their duties with dedication.
The Prime Minister was addressing a series of public gatherings on Friday (May 2) at Homagama, Kirivaththuduwa, Dampe, Nawalamulla and Magammana.
Dr. Amarasuriya said, “There remains a significant amount of work to be done ahead of us. Our foremost priority is to reform the education sector. It is imperative that teachers receive proper training and that shortages of teachers be accurately addressed. For years, appointments of teachers and school principals have not been conducted appropriately. Numerous court cases are currently pending due to various irregularities within the Ministry of Education.”
The Premier said, “Corruption should be rejected by all sectors of society, whether in schools, hospitals, offices, workplaces, or even at service counters. Citizens must collectively oppose it. Our youth, in particular, must reunite and take collective action. Dreams alone are not sufficient and realising those dreams requires committed effort.”
She said, “We were informed recently of the tragic death of a university student. The Ministry and the Police are conducting investigations into the matter. Incidents such as these expose the breakdown of the connections of university systems within our society. This situation must be addressed and rectified.
“For the first time, the leadership representatives of the country and the people are working in close partnership. Public trust in governance has been re-established, and we are committed to honouring and upholding that trust as we strive to rebuild the nation,” she said.
“You may contribute through taxes and levies. In the past, those funds often disappeared into private hands. We are determined not to allow that to happen again. These public funds will be used to provide services directly to the people,” the Premier said.
“This is a national effort to build a society rooted in integrity and discipline. Such a transformation cannot occur overnight. It needs strategic planning and time. Those questioning the Government’s progress are not truly considering the well-being of the people. No matter the criticisms or disruptions, the Government remains steadfast in its course,” the Premier said.