Emphasis on collective action for National progress
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, asserting that the foundational principles of the United National Party (UNP) are absent in the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), appealed to former UNP members who joined the SJB to reunite in safeguarding the Nation from indebtedness and contribute to constructing a secure future for our future generations.
Speaking at the inaugural public rally of the UNP at the Kuliyapitiya Municipal Council Stadium on Saturday (10), President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasised the importance of collective action for National progress. Themed ‘Reality’, the series of public gatherings drew a substantial crowd for its debut event in Kuliyapitiya.
Marking his first public address since assuming office, President Ranil Wickremesinghe received a warm reception from the assembled audience. Following his speech, he mingled with attendees, engaging in amicable conversations.
Expressing gratitude to supporters across party lines since assuming the Presidency, President Ranil Wickremesinghe stressed the necessity of collaborative efforts for national development, transcending narrow political interests.
Highlighting the government’s efforts to provide relief amidst challenging circumstances, the President underscored the UNP’s commitment to truth and progress, asserting its unparalleled vision for nation-building.
Recalling the UNP’s policy statement during the 2020 elections, which addressed the country’s economic challenges, President Ranil Wickremesinghe reaffirmed the party’s dedication to addressing critical issues and presented a video, outlining key points.
As economy rebounds further relief will reach our people
UNP Deputy Leader and Senior Advisor to the President on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardene: “The current populace stands as the backbone of the United National Party. Our Nation has weathered severe challenges in the past. Without President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s leadership, the trajectory of our nation would have been unthinkable. We collectively bear the weight of economic strain, akin to the discomfort of applying medicine to a wound. Presently, Ranil Wickremesinghe administers the remedy to mend our economic woes. As the economy rebounds, further relief will reach our people. Greece’s economic crisis took 13 years to resolve, yet President Ranil Wickremesinghe achieved economic recovery within just 2 years.
Initially, the Opposition clamoured for negotiations with the International Monetary Fund, a request the President fulfilled. However, they now hypocritically oppose these negotiations. The President eradicated the era of winding queues, prompting baseless criticisms from certain political factions. To illuminate the nation’s realities, a series of nationwide meetings are convened. Former UNP members are rallying back, reaffirming our readiness to triumph in any forthcoming elections.”
Nation witnessing revival thanks to President’s efforts
National Organizer of UNP and Presidential Senior Advisor on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka: “It’s been quite a while since I attended such a gathering. Following the economic downturn, President Ranil Wickremesinghe took the helm of the Nation’s Presidency. The economic crisis stemmed from the policies of the previous administration, including mismanagement of government revenue and an abrupt halt to fertiliser usage. Upon assuming office, President Ranil Wickremesinghe inherited a meagre foreign reserve, barely sufficient to procure a few gas tanks, let alone a fuel vessel.
Under his leadership, bolstered by diplomatic relations, the President stabilized the economy, ensuring essential supplies like gas and fuel remained accessible. Thanks to his administration’s efforts, the Nation is witnessing a revival, akin to the economic status of 2019. Citizens are benefiting from relief measures and inheritance programmes, reclaiming what was lost.
Today, progress and harmony flourish in the Northern regions. A notable 106 individuals from the North have applied for officer positions in the Air Force, with an additional 156 seeking other roles. Through adept economic management and fostering National unity, our Nation can ascend to greater heights.”
Hindering Ranil equates to impeding Nation’s progress
Former Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam: “When the President entrusted me with this task, I selected Kuliapitiya as our primary battleground, drawing the largest crowd to witness our endeavours today. These attendees signify their trust in the President’s agenda.
Rest assured the President remains resolute in preventing a recurrence of the economic collapse witnessed in 2019. Hindering Ranil Wickremesinghe equates to impeding the Nation’s progress. History reveals that each time the UNP relinquished power, the Nation encountered crises. Should another economic downturn arise, the burden of recovery will weigh heavily with
no clear responsibility.
Regardless of the forthcoming election, we are committed to diligently labouring for victory.”
Citizens enjoy a secure livelihood…
UNP General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara: “President Ranil Wickremesinghe has tirelessly laboured to dispel a sombre era and cultivate an environment conducive to the well-being of the populace. Barely two years ago such gatherings, were inconceivable. Presently, citizens enjoy a secure livelihood, a testament to President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s adept economic stewardship.
Throughout periods of UNP absence from governance, the Nation plunged into turmoil, devoid of capable leadership. President Wickremesinghe embraced this challenge, diligently working to safeguard the fundamental right to life for the Nation’s inhabitants. Furthermore, concerted efforts have been undertaken to enhance livelihoods through initiatives like the Aswasuma and Urumaya programmes.”
Country rebounds under President’s stewardship in mere two years
United National Party Chairman, Member of Parliament Wajira Abeywardena: “The UNP boasts of a remarkable feat in global politics. Since 1994, its stalwart leader, Ranil Wickremesinghe, has valiantly confronted National crises with unwavering honesty, despite facing electoral defeats. In a mere two years, under his stewardship, the country rebounded from the economic turmoil of the early 2000’s.
However, subsequent elections saw the electorate swayed by deceit and slander, resulting in defeat for the UNP. In the 2015 Presidential polls, a different candidate emerged victorious, striving to elevate the Nation’s economy. In the 2019 Presidential race, a policy statement warned of an impending economic crisis by 2022 if $300 billion was not secured-an alarm dismissed by the ruling regime of that time.
Remarkably, the UNP holds a unique distinction globally: of simultaneously holding the positions of Prime Minister and President while maintaining only one parliamentary seat. This visionary leader deserves another term as President in the upcoming election. Let us rally behind the leadership that safeguarded our rights, ensuring a brighter future for all.”
Time to contemplate; Propel our Nation forward or hold it back
Team Leader of the UNP in the Colombo District Ravi Karunanayake: “The UNP stands as the oldest political entity in our Nation, with a rich history of contributing significantly to its development. Notably, Ranil Wickremesinghe’s remarkable journey from securing the Presidency with just one MP exemplifies our party’s resilience and influence. The economic turmoil of 2022 brought about fuel and gas shortages, causing inconvenience and long queues. Wickremesinghe courageously took on the task of revitalising the economy, ensuring the people’s fundamental right to livelihood is safeguarded today.
Reflecting on past electoral decisions driven by necessity, such as voting for basic necessities like rice and affordable bread, we recognize the need for a modern and competitive economic system. This vision is currently underway, prompting us to contemplate whether we will propel our nation forward or hold it back.
In the recent general election, a significant number of UNP members chose silence. I extend an invitation to re-engage these individuals, urging them to participate actively in future elections and collaborate with other parties to secure victories for the betterment of our Nation.”
Return President Wickremesinghe; architect of our economic recovery
Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment Promotion Manusha Nanayakkara: “The Opposition’s claim of being unable to mobilize is contradicted by the overwhelming presence of this ‘Jana Ganga’ of appreciative supporters in Kuliyapitiya today, signalling a promising victory for the UNP at the upcoming election.
Despite the current misinformation campaign by boastful leaders, the truth remains evident to the people. They remember the tumultuous events of 1988-89 and recognise the lack of significant progress during Chandrika’s Presidency and even the 2015 term under President Sirisena. Despite the JVP’s reluctance to support sending money abroad, President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s steadfast commitment to stabilising the Nation’s economy deserves commendation.
Given the lack of room for experimentation in our Nation’s affairs, I implore our cherished citizens to rally behind the return of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the architect of our economic recovery.”
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