March 02, Colombo (LNW): Justice, Prison Affairs, and Constitutional Reforms Minister Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, PC, marked the opening ceremony of the Pannipitiya, Depanama, Mahawatta Road development, part of the ambitious 1,500-kilometer road reconstruction project for the year 2024, on Thursday (29).
Responding to media queries about the Speaker’s decision on appointing a new Inspector General of Police (IGP), Minister Rajapakshe highlighted that despite the constitutional amendment and the appointment of 10 members to the Legislative Council, the absence of a designated representative for minor parties is causing the delay. He noted that the Speaker faces a practical challenge in this matter and suggested seeking legal interpretations from the Supreme Court if any concerns arise.
Minister Rajapakshe further addressed the economic challenges faced in the past three years, attributing them to the Easter attack, the Covid-19 pandemic, and an overall economic crisis. Despite these obstacles, he commended the current President’s leadership for revitalizing development activities within a short period.
He emphasized the need to focus on the agricultural and industrial sectors for the country’s economic growth. The Minister highlighted the introduction of a loan scheme for small and medium enterprises and announced the commencement of road development covering 1,500 kilometers across the nation under the Highways and Road Development Ministry.
Looking ahead, Minister Rajapakshe assured the residents of the Maharagama constituency that numerous roads would undergo renovation in the future. The event saw the participation of former Municipal Councillors of Maharagama Municipal Council, officials from the Road Development Authority, and local residents, underscoring the collaborative effort toward national development.
