Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya called for unity and civic engagement to transform Colombo into the most beautiful city in the country, stating that the National People’s Power (NPP) is committed to building a future free of discrimination and corruption.
Speaking at public gatherings in Dematagoda, Kotahena, Maradana, and Kompannaveediya on April 28, the Prime Minister emphasised that Colombo’s Municipal Council, with an annual revenue of Rs. 30 billion, has the resources to uplift the city’s infrastructure and living standards. However, she criticised the current administration for lacking empathy and failing to use public funds effectively, describing it as a “den of corruption.” Dr. Amarasuriya underscored the need to restore public trust and accountability within the council.
Reflecting on the political changes since 2024, she noted the historic decisions made by citizens during the Presidential and Parliamentary elections, which brought a new government committed to serving all communities. She recalled that elections scheduled for 2023 were postponed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, and it was only through legal intervention that the NPP was able to secure the people’s right to vote and push forward with Provincial Council Elections.
Dr. Amarasuriya expressed confidence in an NPP victory at the upcoming Municipal Council elections on May 6, stating that Vraie Cally Balthazaar is ready to take on the role of Mayor of Colombo. She praised Balthazaar’s accessibility, passion, and capability to develop the city, supported by a dedicated team. The Prime Minister highlighted the NPP’s clean record and commitment to safeguarding public funds, pointing to the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as a model of responsible governance.
Education reform was another key topic of the Prime Minister’s speech. She outlined plans to revamp the education system, making it more inclusive and enjoyable for children. She stressed that education should extend beyond textbooks and exams to inspire curiosity and critical thinking. Under the Municipal Council’s purview, she said, preschools have already seen improvements, and these reforms are being mirrored nationally.
Dr. Amarasuriya praised the cultural diversity of Colombo, referencing places of worship for multiple faiths coexisting peacefully and the variety of cuisines available in local shops. She said that this multiculturalism is a valuable asset for tourism and must be preserved and promoted.
The Prime Minister also touched on economic policy, noting that the first budget of the new administration allocated funds for critical infrastructure, including preschools, roads, water and waste management, and drainage systems. These projects aim to directly improve residents’ daily lives. She reaffirmed that these funds were collected through national sacrifices and must be protected from corruption.
While acknowledging that only six months have passed since the new government assumed office, Dr. Amarasuriya highlighted progress in stabilising the economy. The focus now, she said, is to drive economic growth through support for small businesses, women’s empowerment, youth entrepreneurship, and improved community infrastructure.
She concluded by urging the public to elect a capable and honest team to the Municipal Council to continue the transformative journey and build a transparent, inclusive, and thriving Colombo.
The event was attended by Parliamentarian and Attorney-at-Law Lakmali Hemachandra, Hemanta Wijekoon, Colombo Mayoral Candidate Vraie Cally Balthazaar, and other candidates.
