Political parties, trade unions and other organizations should understand the current state of affairs in the country and support the President and his Government to carry forward the already begun work without interruptions for a certain period of time, United National Party (UNP) Assistant Leader Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said.
Addressing a press conference at the Sirikotha UNP Headquarters yesterday, he said the President’s recent statement in Parliament on ‘Aragalaya’ has been misinterpreted by various groups and individuals.
“What the President told Parliament was that he would not let protestors block roads or behave violently by engaging in arson attacks or assaults. Do not give different interpretations to it. Some demand to hold elections, but understand that it is a costly affair the country can hardly afford now. We struggle to find money even to pay for imported fuel shipments. The country has to be stabilized and the people must be given relief prior to holding elections,” he said. The UNP Assistant Leader said elections would be held when the time is appropriate.
“Do not try to give different interpretations to the people by turning your back to reality. Evaluate the situation fairly before arriving at decisions. Otherwise, the people will suffer again as they did several months ago,” he added.
“The President is confident of steering the country ahead while weathering the storm. Taking the people to the streets at this time will not help the country. The President thinks positively that the country can settle its debt and go forward. If there are better options, we are ready to consider them. If not, support the individual who has taken up the challenge,” he commented.