We must be the ones to initiate a change in the country’s political culture – AKD

National People’s Power (NPP) Presidential Candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake said Sri Lanka will be transformed from having one of the highest electricity rates in Asia, to one of the most affordable. Addressing a rally in Kalutara yesterday (18), Dissanayaka further stressed, “For a long time, the people of our country have strived for change and transformation. They have endured various hardships and fought relentlessly for justice and fairness.

Yet, despite these efforts, we have not achieved our final victory. However, we now believe that this time, we can secure that victory.” “Our ancestors, for generations, have made countless attempts to create a just society instead of an unjust one, and to replace oppression with justice and dignity.



Today, it is clear that the results of their struggle will manifest on September 21.” “The people are the ones who played the biggest role in this victory. In the past, it was politicians who eagerly awaited election day.

But for the first time in Sri Lanka’s history, it is the people who are anxiously waiting for the election.” “Some may claim that the support the NPP has gathered is merely the result of disillusionment, anger, and frustration toward other political parties. While this might have been a starting point, today, the people stand with us because of their hopes and aspirations for the future.

They are united around the dream of realizing a prosperous future for all.” “The first step toward that future will be taken on September 21. That day will mark the beginning of a long journey toward profound changes in this country.

” “We ask our supporters to ensure that, after our victory, no harm comes to any supporter of other political groups. Voting for a party is a democratic right. We must be the ones to initiate a change in the country’s political culture.

There should be no violence or intimidation after the election, as has happened in the past. While we may be divided during the election, after it, the entire nation must come together to work on rebuilding the country. Therefore, even if opposing Parties attempt to provoke conflict, we urge you not to get involved.

We call on the police and armed forces to carry out their duties and prevent any such disturbances.” “Today, our nation’s politics are centered around corruption, fraud, and deceit. When we come into power, we will establish a political culture free from these vices.

The current political culture, where Ministers and Members of Parliament place themselves above the public and the Law, will be entirely transformed. We will create a government that is subject to the Law, with political authority accountable to the people.” “Step by step, we will build a new political culture, where leaders stand with and for the citizens, and where equality prevails.

Under a government led by the NPP, we will forge this transformation.” “Moreover, we will not tolerate any form of racism or religious extremism. Our campaign has made it clear that we reject these divisive ideologies.

We have not, and will not, use religious or ethnic divisions as a tool in our political platform.” “However, it is regrettable to note that Sajith Premadasa and his camp have been stirring up ethnic and religious tensions to create division. They have spread the false narrative that a government led by NPP would halt traditional religious festivals and even claimed that under our rule, the Muslim community would be unable to live with their cultural identity intact.

These tactics are a disservice to the unity of our nation. They are inappropriate in a political arena.” “It is not a surprise that Sajith employs such divisive rhetoric.

He lacks a deep understanding of the economy, democracy, and the development this country needs. His political strategy revolves around spreading lies and misinformation.” “Today, the NPP has united the people of the North, South, East, and West—Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim alike—into a single political movement.

Even before election day, we have already secured a symbolic victory with that.” “We provide an allowance of Rs 10,000 to Rs 17,500 for low-income families for a short time. In addition, we will transform Sri Lanka from having one of the highest electricity rates in Asia to one of the most affordable.

Taxes on essential goods, healthcare, and education will also be completely removed.” Before embarking on deeper reforms, we will prioritise addressing the basic needs of the people. This is the transformative change we envision for our country.

.