Country will go back to an era of queues, cautions President

• Expresses intention of uniting country
• Must avoid queues for basic necessities

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of adhering to the current programme agreed upon with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during the “Ekwa Jaya Gamu – Api Galle” public rally held on Saturday (27) at the Galle Municipal Council Stadium

He asserted that any claims suggesting they are operating outside this framework are false and will jeopardise the nation.

“As the economy develops, we are looking to the future, but first, we must adhere to the agreements we have made. Our bondholders have specific terms and conditions that must be adhered to; they cannot be ignored. Progress can only be made within the framework of the IMF. Anyone who claims that we can disregard the IMF is lying and will hinder the country’s progress.

“I have heard this rhetoric from the Opposition. Do you acknowledge the existence of the IMF agreement? What would happen if we lost access to this funding? We would go back to long queues for basic necessities,” he added. The President highlighted that he has never shied away from challenges and stated that it is his political practice to fulfill his responsibilities quietly. He reaffirmed his commitment to moving the country forward as promised.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe also announced for the first time that he will run in the upcoming Presidential Election and has already deposited the money.

The meeting saw attendance from over 50 ministers and members of parliament from various political parties, including the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, as well as former ministers and more than 15,000 residents from the Galle district. They gathered to learn about the government’s programme and the path ahead, vowing to work toward the President’s victory in the presidential election.

The President announced that he is running as an independent candidate in this year’s presidential election. He expressed his goal of uniting the country and urged all politicians to set aside their political differences in order to work together toward building a better Sri Lanka for the youth.

Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapaksa, Ministers Prasanna Ranatunga, Bandula Gunawardena, Tiran Alas, State Ministers Chamara Sampath Dassanayake, Advocate Mohan De Silva, Geetha Kumarasinghe, Piyal Nishantha, D. B. Herath, Dilum Amunugama, Kanaka Herath, Lohan Ratwatte, Anuradha Jayaratne, Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon, Shehan Semasinghe, and Anupa Paskuval; Chief of Staff to the President and Senior Advisor on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka; Senior Advisor on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardene; Members of Parliament Janaka Bandara Tennakoon, Vajira Abeywardena, Sahan Pradeep, Kokila Gunawardena, Major Pradeep Undugoda, Muditha Soysa, Lalith Warankumara, Rajika Wickramasinghe, Jagath Samarawickrama, Kumarasiri Ratnayake, Akila Ellawala, Madhura Withanage, Major Sudarshan Denipitiya, Premnath C. Dolawatta, Jayantha Weerasinghe, A. L. M. Athaullah, Dr. Gayashan Navananda, Kulasingham Thileepan, and S. C. Muthukumarana; former ministers Ravi Karunanayake, P. Harrison, and Vijayakala Maheswaran, former Governor Azath Salley; former Mayor Rosy Senanayake and many other political representatives attended the public rally.

Addressing the rally President Ranil Wickremesinghe further stated:

“Galle holds a special place in my heart. My father was from Galle, which creates a personal connection to this city. Today, I have come here to share an important announcement: I am running for the Presidential Election and have also pledged my deposit. This decision was made after careful consideration. Two years ago, I found myself pondering whether I could take on this responsibility. In 2022, I was invited to become Prime Minister because there was no one else willing to step up.

“For the first time in Sri Lanka and Asia, the Premiership was offered to me, without the backing of influential supporters. I accepted this role because I witnessed the suffering of the people – waiting in long lines for fuel, facing queues for medicine, and schools being closed and businesses struggling to survive. I decided then that I would take charge and work to fix these issues.

“In just two years, I have never shied away from a challenge. I prefer to act rather than speak at length. I stepped into this difficult situation, where food was scarce, and we managed to turn things around. We secured fertiliser for the agricultural sector and ensured it was distributed in time for the Yala season. I reached out to Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the IMF, as well as the World Bank and the Prime Minister of Japan, asking for their assistance in resurrecting this country.

“My faith in our ability to recover was strong, and I knew we had to keep moving forward. This journey began with gradual support, and today we have made significant progress in overcoming bankruptcy. I have engaged in discussions with the IMF and made difficult decisions, but I am confident that we will see improvements within six months to a year.

“I was told that the Sri Lankan Government could not repay its loans in rupees, and a law needed to be passed to prohibit this. However, we have now secured the funds and are operating with a surplus. Although this required increasing the VAT, we are making strides forward. Today, the value of the rupee has strengthened.

“We have a variety of food crops available for distribution, and the overall prices of oil and fuel have improved compared to previous times. We didn’t resort to raising oil prices or providing subsidies, but we have developed effective strategies that mirror those used in India. While we have made significant progress, I acknowledge that not everyone’s problems have been resolved. Many people are still struggling, with their belongings pawned for cash. Over the years, the amount of mortgages in banks has increased from Rs. 250 billion to Rs. 500 billion, leaving some individuals in debt and searching for solutions.

“We are addressing these issues gradually. This is a natural consequence of an economic collapse, and the pain of this experience has not been forgotten. However, we are actively working on solutions to strengthen our economy. Recently, we implemented relief measures regarding gold and jewellery, and we are committed to continuing this support. I empathise deeply with those who are suffering and facing hardships, and we are doing everything we can to assist them.

“We have increased the benefits provided to the public, raising the amount from Rs. 1.8 million to Rs. 2.4 million. Scholarships are now being offered, and we have granted land rights to two million individuals. We are committed to supporting the common people as much as possible. Additionally, we plan to convert all the upcountry land currently occupied by the upcountry Tamil people into villages, ensuring they receive land rights. This is part of my programme to empower the underprivileged, and it reflects this Government’s commitment to granting rights to all citizens.

“Our policy is different from previous governments that made incremental changes. We are focused on addressing educational needs and continue to provide support to schools. By increasing financial assistance, we aim to reduce poverty in rural areas over the next five to six years, which will lead to higher incomes in those communities.

“Thanks to the stability established in the country, tourism has begun to flourish again, attracting visitors from various countries, including Russia, Ukraine, and Israel. This influx of tourists generates income and contributes to economic growth. As the economy develops, we are looking to the future, but first, we must adhere to the agreements we have made.

“Our bondholders have specific terms and conditions that must be adhered to; they cannot be ignored. Progress can only be made within the framework of the IMF. Anyone who claims that we can disregard the IMF is lying and will hinder the country’s progress. I have heard this rhetoric from the Opposition. Do you acknowledge the existence of the IMF agreement? What would happen if we lost access to this funding? We would be back to long queues for basic necessities.

“It is pointless to engage in political talk that undermines the country through deceit. They will not inherit this country if it falls; they are merely chasing after it. When I was appointed Prime Minister, I understood the challenges ahead, which is why I am committed to moving this agreement forward. The country is progressing; the rupee is strengthening, and interest rates are falling. We must continue this path to alleviate the burden on the common people.

“If anyone suggests an alternative route, ask them where the funding will come from. We must put an end to this cycle of lies. Aid is currently flowing in, which will enable us to develop the country. My focus today is on the future of our youth; we cannot afford to lose more of them to emigration.

“We must build a prosperous nation, similar to what we see in Singapore and Dubai. Why can’t we achieve that here? Why can’t we create a new economy? We are held back by the lies we tell ourselves. We need to consider what our young people envision for their future. When I mentioned the year 2048, the Opposition laughed, but they fail to realise that this represents a future where most of our population will be under 50 years old.

“We must continue this programme to build a better country for the current and future generations. Today, our country’s Gross Domestic Product is US$ 85 billion, and we should aim to increase it to US$ 350 billion. We have the potential to achieve even more. Countries like China, Vietnam, and Singapore have done it. Therefore, we should unite to build a prosperous nation for our youth, focusing on progress rather than political slogans.

“To achieve this, we must embark on a new journey. I declare that I am ready to take that journey. Today, I stand before you as an independent candidate, committed to this path. It’s time to move beyond old politics. When I took over the government, a very talented group of Ministers joined me, and together we began the programme to rebuild the country’s economy. The positive results are evident today.

“We must all work together, think new, and embark on this new journey collectively. I call upon Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake to join us. For years, we have been divided politically. Now, we must unite for the sake of our country. Let’s build a better future for our children together. Ten years is enough for us to develop this country. Let’s build this country.”

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President is the only leader who can build an economy that will not collapse – Manusha

Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said:

“Ranil Wickremesinghe will remain as the President of this country even after September 21, as evidenced by this sea of supporters from diverse backgrounds – green, blue, purple, and representatives from various parties – all gathered in one place today.

“Two years ago, Galle faced the longest fuel queues, prompting many people to leave the country. However, President Wickremesinghe, a leader who recognised the struggles of our citizens, took charge and worked diligently to rescue the oppressed. He is the only leader who has taken on the responsibilities of the common people and has demonstrated his ability to accept challenges.

“Additionally, he has provided assurances to the people, ensuring land rights based on inheritance. As a result, the value of the dollar is gradually decreasing, leading to a reduction in the prices of goods. Business people, scholars, and intellectuals all recognise him as the leader who has improved our country’s economy.

“When Gotabaya Rajapaksa assumed the Presidency, the public hoped for a strike-free nation where they could live without fear. Unfortunately, that vision did not materialise. Ranil Wickremesinghe has proven to be the only leader capable of fulfilling those aspirations. This is a crucial opportunity that may not come again, so I urge you to support President Ranil Wickremesinghe for the next five years. He is the leader who can make the right decisions and build an economy that will not collapse”.

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President has decentralised funds for development to every MP – Ramesh

Health and Industries Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana said:

“To those who speak of a 75-year curse, I urge you to look at the development that has taken place in this country during that time. We can see the progress made by every ruler through the construction of highways, hospitals, and the provision of electricity.

“Under President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s leadership, we have moved past the economic crisis and advanced various development projects. He has worked to decentralise allocations for development activities to every Member of Parliament, and these provisions have not come from printing money or foreign loans, but through effective economic management. Today, we see decreased bank interest rates and an increase in foreign reserves, which now stand at US$ 6 billion.

“However, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted our economy. While we reported 16,000 COVID-19 deaths, Sri Lanka achieved one of the lowest death rates globally. Mahinda Rajapaksa won the civil war, and Gotabaya Rajapaksa saved lives during the pandemic. Yet, it is Ranil Wickremesinghe who has successfully rescued this country from the economic crisis, freeing the people from oppression and driving development forward.

“In Galle, we have seen significant accomplishments, such as transforming the Karapitiya General Hospital into a national hospital, establishing an allied-health faculty, completing a continuous water supply project, and opening a new Court complex. These initiatives have been carried out over the last two years, benefiting not just Galle, but the entire country.

“Today, for the first time, a non-partisan candidate is running for Presidency, and I have no doubt about that candidate’s victory.

“I believe that only President Ranil Wickremesinghe can continue this journey toward economic stability. Therefore, I urge the people of Galle to support Ranil Wickremesinghe with an additional three hundred thousand votes. Together, let’s move forward with the leader who has saved our country”.

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President offered to free people from oppression without any conditions – Sabry

Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, PC said:

“We stand today at a critical juncture in our history. This year’s Presidential Election will determine whether we can move forward from the economic crisis we faced two years ago. That is why we have set aside our race, religion, caste, and political affiliations to come together on this platform. We are united in our commitment to maintaining the stability that has been established. Our country does not need a leader who will start from scratch.

“We experienced significant challenges in accessing fuel, food, and gas. Do you remember when I took over the Ministry of Finance, our foreign reserves were only twenty million dollars? We reached out to various countries for assistance. At that time, we invited the Opposition to join us in helping those affected, but they did not step forward. Ranil Wickremesinghe offered to free the people from oppression without any conditions. Despite being in a position to help, the Opposition did not come forward when the country was in crisis.

“President Ranil Wickremesinghe has worked tirelessly to restore the country in a remarkably short period, surprising even the international community. He deserves the next five years to lead us forward and prevent another collapse. We must remember that we were able to save our country from a fate similar to Lebanon’s, which was on the brink of disaster.

“Under President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s leadership, not only has the country recovered, but relief measures have also tripled, benefiting the people. He has worked to protect the land rights of citizens through the ‘Urumaya’ programme and has ensured access to education by awarding Presidential scholarships to students. Ranil Wickremesinghe is a leader who prioritises the country over party politics. I urge you all to support Ranil Wickremesinghe in his efforts to advance our nation’s agenda”.

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Our is the broadest coalition for this Presidential Election – Mahindananda

MP Mahindananda Aluthgamage said:

“This is the first public rally held since the announcement of the Presidential Election to declare Ranil Wickremesinghe’s candidacy. I want to emphasize that this is the broadest coalition of parties assembled for this year’s Presidential Election.

“This stage is therefore historic. More than 40 ministers representing the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna are present, along with the United National Party, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, and numerous Left-wing political parties. This is undoubtedly the broadest platform of this Presidential Election. Moreover, this stage hosts the candidate destined to win this election. This country can be saved, and the winning leader is right here on this platform.

“We haven’t yet fully embraced the Ranil Wickremesinghe era. However, for the sake of the country, we have set aside our differences and united today. In the coming days, Sajith will also join us on this broad stage. Representatives from the North and East are also part of this inclusive platform. There are no hidden political agendas here.

“I urge you to entrust President Ranil Wickremesinghe with the next five years to save and rebuild our country”.

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Thanks to Ranil Wickremesinghe, people were able to break free from oppression – Ishak Rahuman

SJB Anuradhapura District MP Ishak Rahuman said:

“Looking at this stage, it is evident that Ranil Wickremesinghe’s victory is assured. Two years ago, the people suffered greatly due to fuel and gas shortages, often waiting in long queues for just a litre of fuel. President Wickremesinghe has worked diligently to establish an economy capable of meeting the basic needs of our citizens, especially after enduring an era of fourteen-hour power cuts.

“I was with Sajith Premadasa when he was offered the position of Prime Minister. He refused the opportunity and walked away. Had he taken charge then, our country might have faced dire consequences similar to those in Afghanistan. Understanding this, I chose to support President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Thanks to his economic policies, the people have begun to break free from oppression. Therefore, I urge you to support Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic agenda in the upcoming Presidential Election”.

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We are united under a common goal for the future of our nation – Sampath

Galle District Coordinating Committee Co-Chairman and Galle District MP Sampath Athukorala said:

“Two critical questions hung in the balance until yesterday. The first: would a Presidential election be held? This uncertainty was cleared up with the announcement of the election date in yesterday’s gazette. The second: would President Ranil Wickremesinghe, architect of the nation’s recovery over the past two years, seek re-election? This too was resolved yesterday.

“Galle, a district of strength and significance, is gathering today to respond. This city has always been a strategic starting point, and today, united under a common goal, we stand together for the future of our nation. It is fitting that Galle hosts the first rally of this campaign, backed by the unwavering support of its people”.

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