By: Isuru Parakrama
October 24, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has committed to stepping down from office once the nation has been successfully revived and strengthened.
Speaking at a public rally, the President stressed the need for a united Sri Lanka, highlighting the essential role of a strong government in addressing the country’s challenges.
During his address, President Dissanayake underscored the importance of November 14th, the date set for what he described as the “great parliamentary cleanup.”
This initiative, according to the President, will mark a pivotal moment in the country’s political renewal.
“There has been much discussion about the necessity of an opposition, but this time we need a government that empowers the people,” Dissanayake remarked, indicating a shift in focus towards stronger governance rather than partisan divides.
The President also reflected on the deeply entrenched divisions that have historically fragmented the nation, particularly along ethnic and nationalist lines. He pointed out that these divisions were often exploited to maintain political power.
“Our main challenge has been the divisive politics that have splintered the population and driven people towards nationalist parties. This strategy has been used to cling to power for decades. In the past, the Tamil and Muslim communities didn’t believe in our ability to bring about change. Our message didn’t reach them, but we are now heading towards a significant election,” he said.
Calling for unity under a shared vision, President Dissanayake emphasised the role of his party, National People’s Power (NPP), in bridging these divides.
“What must happen now is for us to unite under one umbrella—the NPP—which offers shelter to all Sri Lankans. We need to move beyond ethnic divisions and work towards a future where being Sri Lankan takes precedence over being Sinhala, Tamil, or Muslim,” he emphasised.
Acknowledging potential legal obstacles to national cohesion, the President pledged to implement reforms where necessary.
“If there are legal barriers to unity, we will amend those laws. We will decentralise political power, ensuring equal rights and laws for all, regardless of ethnicity. Our goal is to build a nation where being Sri Lankan is our foremost identity,” he assured the public.
In his speech, President Dissanayake also took aim at long-standing political families and figures, criticising those who have clung to power for generations.
“Many who have been in power for years, passing down their positions from fathers to sons, are now in political disarray. Their once-unquestionable grip on power has crumbled. The problems they created have grown so large that they can no longer even ask for votes. It’s a pitiful state of affairs,” he stated, adding that this was a crucial moment for rebuilding the country and reasserting the rule of law.
Dissanayake concluded by reiterating his promise to relinquish power only after the nation had been fully rebuilt, urging the people to remain focused on the larger goal of national recovery.
“We will step aside when our mission is complete, but until then, our focus is on restoring this country,” he declared.
