President rejects criticism over Easter attacks

• Says his administration has fulfilled responsibilities to restore security 

President Maithripala Sirisena has said he rejects allegations levelled against his administration over the Easter Sunday attacks and emphasised that his administration had fulfilled its duties and responsibilities to restore security after the tragic event.  

President further said as a government his administration had worked to wipe out those responsible for the attacks, the President’s Media Division said. 

He said it is not fair to come in to conclusions about the attacks on 21 April with vested political interests in mind.

President Sirisena made these comments addressing the ‘Sathviru Abhiman’ welfare project dedicated for the Tri-Forces, Police and Civil Security Department personnel held at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium.

President Sirisena said that he venerates all religions and religious leaders. “I am ready to discuss with any person openly, if he has any issue. The discussion can even be conducted before the media.” 

“Though some attempt to portray me as a spineless leader I have shown the world during the 2015 Presidential Election and on many other occasions that I possess the courage and resolution to take appropriate actions.” 

The President said appointing commissions to probe alleged fraud and corruption under the previous government as well as the current government, and his battle against drug dealers and criminals were some clear testimonies to his forthrightness.

“What those with a strong spine should do is not to level charges but to join hands in the battle against criminals and racketeers in order to re-build this country. Criticisms are healthy as long as they do not misguide the general public and create needless uneasiness towards the Government.  These accusers only betray the sacrifices made and the humanitarian missions carried out by our brave armed forces in the aftermath of these heinous attacks,” he said. 

The President said he is still deeply shocked and saddened on the lives lost.

Under the mega ‘Sathviru Abhiman’ program, beneficiaries were presented with full and partial housing grants for the construction of new houses or complete work on partially-built houses. During the ceremony the President presented 25 completed houses to the families of fallen War Heroes and disabled War Heroes. These houses have been constructed with funds worth Rs. 37.5 million from the Api Venuwen Api fund.

In addition, 925 War Heroes received assistance to complete their partially-built houses while 246 War Heroes received State land to build houses. Over 300 children who had excelled at the Grade five scholarship exam were also presented with financial assistance under the ‘Virusisu Pradeepa’ project, for further education.

Secretary to the President Udaya R. Seneviratne, Secretary to the Ministry of defence Major Gen. Shantha Kottegoda, Commanders of Tri-Forces, Acting IGP, Director General of the Department of Civil Defence and Senior Defence Ministry officials were among the large gathering.