"No Political Revenge, But Corrupt Will Be Punished", President Declares in Gampaha

COLOMBO (News 1st) -

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says there will be no limit to action against those who have stolen public property, stressing that the Government will continue pursuing corruption-related investigations.

Addressing a public rally in Gampaha today, the President said there had been a strong public expectation that those responsible for the country’s economic and social decline would be held accountable.

He said major investigations are currently underway, with some cases requiring international assistance, while stressing that the Government has no intention of pursuing political revenge.

The President also addressed the use of racism in politics, saying the people had expected the Government to prevent racial and religious conflict.

He claimed that Sri Lanka had experienced two years without a police complaint relating to a racial conflict, while alleging that attempts had been made to use minor incidents to create racial tensions.

President Dissanayake said racism would no longer be used as a tool to gain political power.

He also stressed that the rule of law must apply equally to everyone.

The President said people who once believed they would never have to face court over alleged crimes or fraud are now being required to appear before the courts.

Meanwhile, he said the Government will submit a Cabinet proposal tomorrow for a 41-billion-rupee fuel subsidy covering October, November and December.

He said the subsidy would be provided without passing the full cost of fuel on to the public.

The President added that the Government was able to manage state institutions in this manner because of the economic strength it had built up.