Many things to rejoice over during last two years of Govt: Gayantha

At the next general election, the people’s opinion will be sought in a technologically advanced, modernised and civilised country, said Minister of Lands and Parliamentary Reforms Gayantha Karunathilaka.

Minister Karunathilaka said the public could be content with the prevailing environment in the country as the unity government completes two years in office.

Speaking at a media conference held at the United National Party (UNP) headquarters Sirikotha, Karunathilake said there are many things to be celebrated when looking back at the last two years after the new Government took over the country.

“State revenues have gone up and expenditure has been reduced. Lavish celebrations that drain public finances have been stopped. Two years ago we observed unproductive investments in the country in white elephant projects. Harbours without ships, airports that need to light up firecrackers before landing planes are what the last government invested in,” he said.

The Minister pointed out that Sri Lanka had an abysmal human rights record when the present government took over. “Especially we have topped the human rights violations record. It was such a country that we accepted.”

Further highlighting the Government’s achievements, Karunathilaka said it was extremely satisfactory to note that Sri Lanka had become a country which provided relief to its citizens and had won confidence at international forums.

The Minister recalled that the salaries of employees in the public sector were increased by Rs. 10,000. Salaries in the private sector also saw an increase. The constructions of the northern and central expressways have been launched. Schools all throughout the island have been developed.

“Looking back, these are the things we can rejoice about during this two-year period of engagement. We have been able to consolidate international confidence. 

“We have created a good situation today. Oil prices, electricity bills and gas prices have been reduced. The prices of medicines were reduced. None of the reduced prices have been increased during the past two years. We can celebrate many such things,” Minister Karunathilaka added.

The Minister also stated that the Government did not in any way interfere in the affairs of the Judiciary.