President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized the importance of the National People’s Power (NPP) consolidating its political influence to deliver the transformative changes that the public expects within Sri Lanka’s political landscape.
Speaking at a rally in Nuwara Eliya on November 3, President Dissanayake highlighted the district’s strategic significance in the upcoming general election. He pointed out that historically, politics in Sri Lanka has divided rather than unified the Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities, with parties often representing specific ethnic groups. “For years, political parties have represented narrow ethnic interests—Tamil parties for Tamils, Sinhala parties for Sinhalese—leaving the people of Nuwara Eliya divided rather than united,” he noted.
However, Dissanayake stressed that the NPP is pioneering an approach aimed at fostering unity among all communities within Nuwara Eliya district, marking a significant shift from past practices.
In his address, the President stated, “If we were to follow the old political route, the power we currently hold, even the presidential office, would be enough. But traditional politics would not have garnered the public support that the NPP received in the recent election.”
Dissanayake criticized longstanding leaders who cling to power even after facing electoral losses, calling this a hindrance to genuine transformation. “To realize our vision, we need to secure influence in various political spheres,” he declared.
The President highlighted the significance of the upcoming November 14 election, which he described as critical for the NPP to gain the authority needed to drive meaningful change. He also outlined plans for provincial council elections next year and local government elections in the near future.
To further the NPP’s goals, President Dissanayake underscored the need to solidify political power through the formation of an efficient cabinet with streamlined portfolios. He pledged that NPP ministers would not enjoy the same privileges as their predecessors, such as official residences in Colombo or extensive security details.
He also announced a commitment to improve public sector wages, promising a fair increase for estate workers as well. Additionally, he plans to recall politically appointed diplomats from overseas missions. “We are determined to relinquish power only once we have successfully rebuilt this nation,” President Dissanayake assured the crowd.
