Fears of attempt to instigate ethnic clashes again: Govt.

The Government yesterday raised fears of an attempt to instigate ethnic clashes again in the country.

Highways and Higher Education Minister Lakshman Kiriella said that some in the opposition are attempting to block moves to create a new Constitution in the country.

He said that those opposing a new Constitution are attempting to create instability in the country and instigate ethnic clashes.  “When all parties in Parliament are attempting to resolve the issues there are those attempting to scuttle the process,” he said.

The Minister urged all parties to make use of the opportunity at hand to create an environment where all communities can live together as Sri Lankans.

He said the country now enjoys freedom and democracy and that must be protected.

Kiriella said the country can develop only if there is peace among all communities.

The Minister also noted that as part of the Government’s development plans work will commence next year on three highways.

One highway will connect Colombo and Kandy and will be constructed with Chinese, Japanese and local assistance. (Colombo Gazette)