President says taking to streets is not an option to topple Govt.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe

• Points to parliamentary election as only option to change Govt.
• Asserts country without a strong economy is also at risk of devolving into chaos
• Says only by working together can build a stronger, prosperous future for our country, its people

President Ranil Wickre-mesinghe yesterday warned that only a parliamentary election can bring in a Government, emphasising that taking to the streets is not an option for it.

Speaking at the Passing Out Parade of Air Force cadets and other officers held at the Trincomalee Air Force Base yesterday, he pointed out that a country can become anarchic due to an economic collapse and urged everyone to prioritise safeguarding both the Constitution and the economy.

President Wickremesinghe highlighted that any changes to the Government must be made through the proper channels, such as a parliamentary election.

“The streets are not an option for the Parliament, and any attempt to subvert the established process would be a violation of Sri Lanka’s Constitution and the rule of law. I am deeply grateful to the armed forces for their role in protecting the Parliament last June. As we have seen in other countries, when a Parliament is not safeguarded, chaos and anarchy can quickly ensue,” he added.

Similarly, he asserted that a country without a strong economy is also at risk of devolving into chaos.

“The Constitution is a crucial document that covers essential matters related to the sovereignty of the people, the national flag, and the national anthem. All of these are included to ensure the security and protection of the country, and there is simply no room for any activity that may jeopardise the country’s sovereignty and independence,” he added.

Recalling the period between 1980 to 2009, Wickremesinghe said the country faced significant threats to its unity and territorial integrity. It was during this time that the Armed Forces and the Police made immense sacrifices to safeguard the nation. Their unwavering commitment and dedication helped to protect the country’s sovereignty and independence and ensured that its people could live in peace and security.

“For Sri Lanka to move forward as a united and prosperous country, all individuals regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or cultural background must work together. Whether Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, Buddhist, Catholic, Hindu or Muslim, it is essential that all citizens come together to work towards the greater good of the nation. Only by working together can we build a stronger, more prosperous future for our country and its people,” he stressed.

“The legitimacy of Sri Lanka’s Government is established by the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary,” he said, adding that the judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding and enforcing the laws enacted by the legislature. All three institutions are focused on safeguarding Sri Lanka’s Constitution and ensuring that the country functions per its laws and regulations.

“It is the responsibility of every citizen to help protect these institutions, which are essential to the proper functioning of the Government and the preservation of Sri Lanka’s democracy. Without these institutions, there can be no assurance that the country will remain stable and secure,” he stated.

A total of 40 Officer Cadets including three females were commissioned as Officers of the Sri Lanka Air Force by the Chief Guest and received their ceremonial swords, which symbolise their status as Commissioned Officers.

Thereafter, flying brevets were pinned on 13 pilot officers and seven trophies were awarded for special achievements.

Two Officer Cadets who have shown exceptional performance were awarded the Sword of Eagle for the best student of the General Duties Pilot Branch and the Sword of Honour for the overall best student among all branches.

“I would like to first congratulate the Air Force on all of you present here today. After completing your education, you decided to join the Air Force and have completed your training, leading you to this point in your career. 

“It brings great joy not only to you but also to your parents, that you have been able to overcome the challenges and join the ranks of the Forces. You may even be the first person from your village to become an Air Force Officer, which is a remarkable achievement,” he said.

However, the President emphasised that with this achievement comes a great responsibility to uphold the dignity of your profession and avoid any activities that could tarnish its image. 

“It is imperative that you remain vigilant and conduct yourself in a manner that reflects positively on the Air Force. Any misstep or incident that causes harm to the image of your profession will not only bring disrepute to yourself, but also to the Air Force as a whole. Therefore, you must maintain the highest standards of professionalism at all times,” he noted.

“Upon taking office, you made a solemn vow to uphold the Constitution, and as members of the Air Force, you also took an oath. You now must ensure the protection of the Constitution, and in doing so, protect the country as well. 

“It is crucial to understand that without a country, the Constitution holds no value and is merely a useless piece of paper. Therefore, it is your responsibility to safeguard both the country and the Constitution, as they are inextricably linked,” he added.

President Wickremesinghe also asserted that their commitment to protecting the Constitution should be unwavering, as any harm inflicted upon it could have severe consequences for the nation. 

“With your determination and dedication, you can help to ensure the continued prosperity and stability of the country, and uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution,” he explained.

He said protecting the country and upholding its Constitution, can ensure that the democracy remains strong and vibrant. “To all of the newly-minted Air Force members here today, I wish you a prosperous and fulfilling future,” he added.

State Minister of Defence Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, President’s Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayake, Eastern Province Governor Anuradha Yahampath, Defence Secretary (Retd.) General Kamal Gunaratne, Air Force Chief Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana and other officials were present on this occasion.