By: Isuru Parakrama
October 03, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reaffirmed his dedication to empowering public servants who prioritise efficiency and a citizen-focused approach, ensuring they are protected from political retaliation.
Unlike previous administrations, he assured that officials working in the public’s interest would be shielded from any form of political interference.
The President made these statements during a meeting with key ministry officials, after taking office as Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries, and Aquatic Resources.
The session involved an in-depth review of the ministry’s current standing and future strategies, with President Dissanayake highlighting the pivotal role of agriculture in combating rural poverty.
He underscored that the performance and commitment of government officials would be central to achieving this goal.
Reflecting on the recent presidential election, Dissanayake noted that the public had clearly rejected the old political culture, seeking a new direction in governance.
The economic hardships faced by citizens and growing dissatisfaction with public services were instrumental in this shift, he said, signalling a transformative period for the nation.
The President expressed his firm commitment to developing a modern, efficient public service that places people at its core. He emphasised that the government is committed to tackling widespread fraud and corruption, which the public views as key contributors to the nation’s economic decline.
This new mandate, according to Dissanayake, is focused on transparency and preventing such destructive practices.
In his address, he called on public servants to earn the trust of the people by acting with integrity and dedication. The President stressed that the fight against corruption rests heavily on the moral responsibility and commitment of government officials, urging them to play a proactive role in the country’s renewal.
This, he stated, is a pivotal time for the public service, with the nation looking to its officials to deliver on their promises with honesty and efficiency.
