By: Isuru Parakrama
October 31, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has underscored that eradicating rural poverty will be the central mission of his administration, emphasising that true governance stems from closeness to the people.
Speaking at a public gathering in Matara, he highlighted a shift towards localised governance, urging ministers to engage directly within their districts rather than operating remotely from Colombo.
The President announced that ministers in the new Parliament would not be allocated housing in Colombo, a measure aimed at ensuring leaders remain present within their communities.
“We need a government that connects with the people directly,” he declared, stressing that addressing local issues requires leaders to be rooted in their constituencies, not isolated in the capital.
Looking ahead, President Dissanayake outlined plans to form a new cabinet and administration after 14 November, introducing what he referred to as “people’s leaders.”
These leaders, he explained, would focus on resolving issues at the community level, fostering a governance approach that serves the public through hands-on engagement.
President Dissanayake reiterated that his government’s most urgent priority is to uplift rural areas and bring lasting change to communities grappling with poverty.
He concluded with a call to action, asserting that a government attuned to the needs of villages is essential for meaningful progress across the country.
