President Dissanayake vows to restore credibility of politicians in eyes of the public
- Took oaths before CJ
- Not a magician and needs support of all citizens
- Will safeguard democracy
- Intent on working with other countries
NPP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake was sworn in as the Ninth Executive President before Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya at a simple but a solemn ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday morning.
His swearing-in marks the stunning downfall of dynastic politics that prevailed in the country since Sri Lanka gained independence from the British colonials.
Addressing the nation after being sworn in as President, he expressed his dedication to safeguarding and strengthening democracy in the country during his tenure of office.
President Dissanayake was of the view that the establishment of democracy in the country cannot be sustained merely by electing a President through elections. He said that assurance of democracy requires a robust government framework and a sound legal system.
The new President expressed his willingness to work with all countries for the benefit of Sri Lanka. “Isolation serves no purpose and progress should be achieved in working with other nations,” he said.
He added that he will not hesitate to take decisions in that respect.
President Dissanayake added that he has a clear and comprehensive understanding about those who have contributed to his victory and his main objective is to win over the hearts of those who did not support him.
“I am optimistic that we will secure their backing for the rebuilding of the country and the people will themselves witness the effects of these initiatives very soon,” he said.
President Dissanayake conveyed his gratitude to former President Ranil Wickremesinghe for respecting the people’s mandate and ensuring the smooth transition of power following the Presidential Election.
“No leader in the country has ever dismissed the mandate given by the people at elections. There has been no instance in the history of the country in which a leader had refused power transition that occurs following an electoral process,” he said.
The President added that they have very clearly understood the challenges facing the country as well as the public expectation for a robust political culture that is free from corruption.
“The impression of the people towards politicians is markedly different. We will make every possible effort to regain the respect and credibility of politicians in the eyes of the public,” he added.
He opined that neither a government, political party nor an individual possesses the capability to resolve the present crisis in the country. “I am not a magician, I am an ordinary citizen with knowledge in certain areas, yet I may lack knowledge in numerous others,” he said.
President Dissanayake added that he will be committed to seeking the support of various stakeholders in order to make collective decisions. He also expressed his intention to contribute to this collective endevour aimed at guiding the country towards a more favourable path.
The President also sought the cooperation of each and every citizen of the country and those who were involved in many sectors to get out of the present crisis.
President Dissanayake said that he will demonstrate to the people his dedication to resolving the crisis confronting the country through his actions and decisions, thereby persuading the public of his commitment.
NPP Parliamentarians Vijitha Herath and Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, former JVP Parliamentarian Dr. Nalinda Jayathissa, JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva, artistes and government servants were present.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake delivers his inaugural address to the nation soon after taking oaths as the Ninth Executive President, at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday.
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