September 13, Colombo (LNW): Independent presidential candidate Ranil Wickremesinghe reflected on the significant changes Sri Lanka has experienced since the ‘aragalaya’ movement two years ago. He noted the collapse of political and economic structures during that period and the challenges the country faced in its aftermath.
Wickremesinghe acknowledged the inconvenience caused to the public following the ‘aragalaya’ and stressed the importance of safeguarding the country’s stability. He admitted to taking several measures, some of which were criticized for allegedly curtailing civic freedoms, but emphasized that his actions were within constitutional principles and aimed at preserving stability.
“Today, we enjoy freedom and elections,” Wickremesinghe stated, warning that without the steps he took, Sri Lanka could have faced a crisis similar to that of Bangladesh. He highlighted the necessity of maintaining a government, a framework, law and order, and stability to protect freedoms and fundamental rights.
Concluding his remarks, Wickremesinghe asserted that these elements have been successfully established, ensuring the country’s stability and safeguarding citizens’ rights.
