Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has refuted claims that roadside businesses are prohibited under the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative, labeling such reports as false. Addressing a press conference at the Government Information Department yesterday (3), the Minister stressed that the initiative is neither an enforcement nor a litigation programme and that no law related to it has been passed in Parliament.
“There are no instructions to arrest individuals or file lawsuits under the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ programme,” Dr. Jayatissa clarified, dispelling concerns and misinformation surrounding the initiative’s objectives and implementation.
The Minister emphasized that the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative, launched under the President’s leadership, is a collaborative effort involving multiple government agencies. Its aim is to transform Sri Lanka into a prosperous nation with happy citizens, enhancing its environmental, social, and moral standing globally.
“This programme is a scientifically designed, long-term plan to address the country’s challenges and rebuild its reputation,” Dr. Jayatissa said, explaining that it is not a short-term or superficial project but a sustainable effort to elevate Sri Lanka’s social and environmental standards.
The Minister called on all citizens to actively participate in the initiative, underscoring its importance in shaping a better future for the country. He highlighted the government’s engagement with state officials and the public to ensure the programme’s success, emphasizing its role in creating a positive transformation across all sectors of society.