‘Puluwan Sri Lanka’: A unifying force to protect our nation

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasised that the ‘Puluwan Sri Lanka’ election campaign is not a platform to divide the nation, but a movement where all Sri Lankans unite to safeguard the country. He made these remarks during the maiden ‘Puluwan Sri Lanka’ victory rally held at Anuradhapura’s Salgadu Stadium on Saturday afternoon (17).

Anuradhapura served as the launch site for a series of public rallies across the island, aimed at securing President Wickremesinghe’s victory in the upcoming Presidential Election. A large crowd from the Rajarata region, representing diverse backgrounds and political affiliations, warmly welcomed the President at the Salgadu Stadium.

In his address, President Wickremesinghe stated that the country’s economy was not built by leaders such as Sajith Premadasa, Anura Dissanayake, Harsha de Silva, or Sunil Handunnetti. He highlighted that the significant economic progress in 2022 and 2023 was driven by his government’s provision of adequate fertiliser, which enabled farmers to achieve successful harvests.

The President also criticised opposition leaders Sajith Premadasa and Anura Dissanayake for speaking about the people’s hardships on political platforms, calling it ironic. He argued that if they truly understood the suffering of the people, they should have taken charge of the government and offered solutions to the nation’s problems.

The President inquired about the whereabouts of Sajith Premadasa and Anura Dissanayake when the price of a gas cylinder reached Rs. 6,800, demanding that they respond to this question. He implied that if they do not, they may be asked to take the stage and address the issue directly.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, continuing his speech, stated: 

“Today, you are all gathered here not for an election campaign where parties clash, but for a movement dedicated to securing the future of our people. The rain today signifies our unity. This is not a place of division, but a gathering where the all Sri Lankans unite to save our nation.

“That is why I am running in the Presidential Election as an independent candidate without party affiliation, under the symbol of the gas cylinder. Those present here today are the ones who stepped up to save the country when other leaders absconded. People from various political parties are gathered here, representing our collective commitment to unite the country and build a better future for its citizens. This movement is not about my personal ambitions or the future of the ministers here; it is a programme for the people of this country.

“At a time when there was no electricity and everyone lived in darkness, no fuel forcing people to walk, no gas with cylinders exploding, no medicine leading to deaths on the streets, when hotels were closed and factories collapsed, I, along with the Prime Minister, took on the responsibility of leading the country. No one else was willing to step forward. The former Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned, as did the former President. The Leader of the Opposition fled, and Anura Dissanayake was nowhere to be found.

“At that time, the value of a dollar was equivalent to Rs. 377, a gas cylinder was priced at Rs. 4,901, a Laugfs gas cylinder at Rs. 6,850, petrol at Rs. 470 per litre, auto diesel at Rs. 460 per litre, kerosene at Rs. 375 per litre, the minimum bus fare was Rs. 40, and electricity cost Rs.8 for the first 30 units, Rs. 20 for up to 60 units, and Rs. 30 thereafter. The people of this country endured great hardship during this period.

“Where was Sajith Premadasa during this time? Where was Anura Dissanayake? If they were truly aware of the people’s suffering, they could have stepped in to take over the government and address these issues.

“If the Opposition Leader understands his responsibilities, he should have assumed control of the government when the previous administration resigned. If the first opposition did not take up this role, then the second opposition should have. Yet, where were they? Today, they speak about the burden on the people’s lives, but failed to act when it was crucial.

“I would like to question where Sajith Premadasa and Anura Dissanayake were when the price of a gas cylinder climbed to Rs. 6,800. Why did they not take action at that time? We will continue to ask this question at every stage. They must provide answers; if they cannot, they should refrain from running in the election. I invite both Sajith and Anura to join us on either side of this stage.

“Currently, the price of a Litro gas cylinder is Rs. 3,690, a reduction of Rs. 1,220. Similarly, the price of a Laugfs gas cylinder has decreased to Rs 3,680, down by Rs. 2,170. This is why I have chosen the gas cylinder as my election symbol – it is a fitting representation. Additionally, we have reduced the price of petrol to Rs. 344 a litre.

“Auto diesel has been reduced to Rs. 317 a litre, and crude oil is now Rs. 202. The minimum bus fare has been set at Rs. 28. Electricity costs are now Rs. 6 for the first 30 units, Rs. 9 up to 60 units, and Rs. 18 thereafter.

“However, I am not entirely satisfied. The dollar, which was Rs. 377, is now Rs. 303. This is just the beginning; there is still much work to be done. Regarding the claim about fertiliser bundles costing Rs. 40,000, this is inaccurate. At that time, fertiliser was unavailable in the country. The current economic recovery was not achieved by Sajith Premadasa, Anura Dissanayake, Harsha de Silva, or Sunil Hadunnetti.

“Additionally, the Urumaya programme has been implemented, granting legal rights to the lands you have cultivated. Although these programmes were temporarily paused due to the elections, a dedicated authority has been appointed to oversee the issuance of land deeds for 2 million people. This programme is expected to be completed within two years, and if necessary, new laws will be introduced to support it.

“We have ensured that no one is left behind and have initiated a programme to share rights equitably. The concessions we have provided are a result of our successful partnership with the International Monetary Fund. Following the terms of this agreement will secure a relief of US$ 13 billion in debt payments. However, if this agreement is altered, these concessions could be lost. Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Sajith Premadasa have suggested changes that could lead to renewed economic problems, such as shortages of fuel, medicine, and gas.

“Therefore, I challenge Sajith and Anura to explain how they would address these issues. If such a crisis arises, they may again retreat from the challenge. The only team capable of saving the country is here with me today. I am here without party affiliation, focused solely on securing your future. We have a clear plan to develop the country.

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe is the only leader capable of strengthening the economy”

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena:

“On September 22, Ranil Wickremesinghe will become the President. As the country and its people engage in a crucial political battle, the citizens of Rajarata have taken the lead in delivering a victorious start. Anuradhapura, our nation’s oldest city, is a fitting backdrop for such political contests. I’ve spoken from Salgado Grounds in the last two presidential elections, but today, the turnout surpasses both those occasions.

“In a time of deep crisis, no other leader stepped forward to take responsibility for the country. However, President Ranil Wickremesinghe did, creating an environment where the people can live in peace. This is more than just a political battle; it’s a fight for the country’s development. Let us, therefore, continue this election campaign with vigour and secure a resounding victory for the President’s leadership.

 

“SLFP unanimously backs Ranil Wickremesinghe”

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva:

“Today, we are here to fulfil a crucial responsibility, not merely to elect an individual as President. Our focus is on supporting a leader with a comprehensive programme for the nation’s success. The Sri Lanka Freedom Party has carefully evaluated the needs of this era and has reached a unanimous decision to back President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

“The Anuradhapura district has been a key stronghold for the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. I urge our party members, who understand the significance of this district, to collaborate with other parties in securing the victory of President Wickremesinghe. His leadership has been transformative for the country, and he remains committed to advancing our nation’s progress.”

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe’s agenda must continue for nation’s progress”

Minister Douglas Devananda:

“When the country was on the brink of collapse, President Ranil Wickremesinghe worked tirelessly to rebuild it from the ground up. Thanks to his leadership, our nation is now stable. We believe that for Sri Lanka to continue progressing without faltering, his agenda must continue. We offer our full support to this cause, confident that better times lie ahead for our country.”

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe is the choice of all who act wisely”

Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi:

“For the first time in my 32-year political career, I stand in support of an independent candidate’s victory. Not only me, but many of us here are dedicated to ensuring President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s success today. We have never before supported an independent candidate, but today, we unite behind President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who, as an independent, has transcended party lines. He is the choice of all who think critically and act wisely.”

“When the former president fled the country, the opposition leader also went into hiding – perhaps due to being targeted during the protests. At a time when our country was in a state of despair, it was only President Ranil Wickremesinghe who stood up for the people. Therefore, it is crucial that we give the leader who saved our nation at its most challenging moment the opportunity to lead us forward.”

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe stepped up to alleviate hardships faced by people”

Minister Ali Sabry:

“In 2022, we were unable to meet the expectations of the 6.9 million mandate due to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Fuel and food shortages led to long queues and a lack of leadership in the country and within the Ministry of Finance. I had to temporarily assume responsibility for the Ministry of Finance and engage with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Despite the presence of economic experts in the opposition at that time, none stepped forward to address the crisis.

“A true leader does not make excuses when the people are suffering. President Ranil Wickremesinghe stepped up to alleviate the hardships faced by the people. Therefore, it is essential to support and dedicate ourselves to the success of this leader.”

 

“Only Ranil Wickremesinghe stepped up to provide leadership needed during the crisis”

State Minister Shehan Semasinghe:

“When we assumed office, the country was grappling with severe shortages; there was no electricity, gas, or fuel, and we could not provide fertilizers to our farmers. Essential medicines and food were also lacking. Despite these dire conditions, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has transformed the situation and brought the country to its current state.

“At that time, Minister Harsha de Silva declared that the challenges we faced were impossible. Yet, President Wickremesinghe, despite coming from a single ministerial role, successfully overcame these challenges and demonstrated his capability to lead the nation.

 

“Entire world acknowledges President’s role in rebuilding the country”
Member of Parliament Dr. Rajitha Senaratne:

“This year’s Presidential Election has 39 candidates, many of whom now seek power to rebuild the country, despite not stepping up during the crisis. When the nation was suffering, no one was willing to take responsibility. Yet, one man, who stood alone in Parliament when others said the country couldn’t be saved, took charge and achieved monumental progress.”

“International bodies have made it clear that they will withdraw support, if Sri Lanka violates agreements with the International Monetary Fund, which would push the country back into crisis. Those making grand promises won’t be able to move the country forward. If you want to leave behind a ruined nation for your children, vote for someone else.

“President empowered the people through initiatives like ‘Urumaya’ and ‘Aswesuma’”

S.M. Chandrasena, Member of Parliament:

“Today, we’ve successfully sent a powerful message from this region to the entire country. In our nation, the two ‘Kaiyanayakas’ are cladding their bathing gear while the sea is miles away, but the turnout at Salgado Grounds today clearly indicates Ranil Wickremesinghe’s inevitable victory. He stepped up during a critical time and made the right decisions to rebuild the country. His voting symbol is the gas cylinder, a symbol that fate itself has bestowed upon him, representing the tangible results he has delivered.

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe is the only experienced candidate in this election”

Member of Parliament Anura Priyadarshana Yapa:

“Consider where our country stood two years ago. The global threat of COVID-19 led to a collapse in international trade. When President Ranil Wickremesinghe took office, our nation was in turmoil. Yet, within two years, he managed to restore the economy. There are 39 candidates in the Presidential Election today, but when our country faced bankruptcy, no leader stepped forward. Ranil Wickremesinghe is the only experienced candidate in this election.”

 

“President took decisive action to revive the economy”

Member of Parliament Duminda Dissanayake:

“On September 22nd, a new era will begin with President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s return to the Presidency. Leaders from all parties have united with the President and are present on this stage in support of the nation. During the crisis, President Wickremesinghe was the only leader who recognised the people’s suffering and took decisive action to revive the economy. This Presidential Election provides an opportunity for the public to express their gratitude to him. I urge you to seize this opportunity and ensure his victory.”

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe is the only leader capable of moving SL forward”

Former Minister Harin Fernando:

“Today marks a significant moment in political history. Yesterday, the opposition leader claimed that Sri Lanka would surpass India in the next five years. However, two years ago, when the country faced shortages of fuel, gas, and fertiliser, and the economy was in crisis, Sajith Premadasa failed to take action. Today, he is making light of the situation and offering only empty promises, while President Ranil Wickremesinghe stepped up to address the nation’s challenges.

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe’s victory is assured”

Former Minister Manusha Nanayakkara:

“Today, there is no one in our camp making racial demands; all such individuals are aligned with Sajith Premadasa. Currently, 14 MPs from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) are supporting President Ranil Wickremesinghe. In 2019, Mr. Premadasa received 5.5 million votes, but in the 2020 General Election, the SJB garnered only 2.7 million votes.”

“We also call on members of the United National Party. In the 2020 General Election, you worked to halve the number of votes Sajith Premadasa received in the 2019 Presidential Election. As your leader now enters the Presidential race, we urge all United National Party members to support his victory.”

 

“In 2022, so-called economic experts in the opposition abandoned the people”

Member of Parliament Ishaq Rahuman:

“Two years ago, everyone in the country was standing in some kind of queue. No one in those lines escaped suffering. Yet, none of the leaders who are now stepping forward to take charge of the country came forward to save you when you were oppressed. The opposition leader fled, and the so-called economic experts in the opposition abandoned the people during the economic crisis.

“At that critical time, it was only President Ranil Wickremesinghe who stepped up to save the people from their hardships. Had the President not come forward then, what is happening in Bangladesh today could have very well happened in Sri Lanka. Therefore, President Ranil Wickremesinghe is the only leader who can strengthen Sri Lanka economically over the next five years.”

 

“Ranil Wickremesinghe has a proven record of economic recovery”

Former Minister P. Harrison:

“Today, the vast turnout at Salgadu Grounds in Anuradhapura is a testament to the certainty of President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s victory. Two years ago, the people were in desperate need of essentials such as fertiliser, gas, and fuel. Since then, President Wickremesinghe has successfully addressed these needs without any shortages. There is no longer a need to rely on Sajith Premadasa or Anura Dissanayake for these purposes.

“In the face of the country’s economic collapse, President Wickremesinghe was the only leader who stepped forward to restore stability. As we approach this pivotal moment, I urge you not to experiment with other leaders. Should we experiment and the country falters again, there will be no one to restore it. Therefore, I implore you to place your trust in President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the leader with international connections and a proven record of economic recovery, and to support his continued leadership.”

Pictures by Ranjith Asanka

 

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