More money for LG reps than for ministers, MPs - President
*Local Council members only work for their
vote
*PR system will be changed
Ishara MUDUGAMUWA
Local Government representatives play a key role in the country’s
development. They receive a large amount of money, even more than
ministers and Parliamentarians, for development activities, President
Mahinda Rajapaksa said.
The President was speaking as the chief guest at the ‘Swarna
Purawara’ Awards ceremony and Local Government National Symposium at
Temple Trees yesterday. President Rajapaksa said that past leaders of
Gam Sabhas were responsible for the village.
”But unfortunately today, though the government allocates money for
development of villages, some Local Government representatives don’t use
them in a proper way. This should be changed,” he said.
“Local Government representatives only try to save their position and
votes due to the preferential vote system.
“The preferential vote system will be changed in the near future.
When I was appointed President, the government failed even to elect a
Speaker to the Parliament.
“But now we have a two thirds majority in Parliament. Therefore I
don’t worry about power, but work hard for the country’s betterment,” he
said.
President Rajapaksa said the time has come for all Sri Lankans to
live together as children of one mother, after 30 years of conflict.
“Although we represent different political parties, we should not
spread hatred and anger among our brethren,” he said.
“Sri Lanka is a country with a long history and a civilization.
“Local Government also has a long history, extending to the period of
Sinhala kings, dating back to the fourth century.
“Village level organizations called Gam Sabhas functioned under
village leaders.
“These things are clearly mentioned in our ancient stone
inscriptions,” the President said.
Local Government and Provincial Council Minister A.L.M. Athaullah,
Deputy Minister Indika Bandaranayake, secretary Nihal Jayathilake,
governors, mayors and Local Government Commissioners participated.
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