The United National Party (UNP) is seeking the people’s mandate to back the Local Government authorities with the governments’ strength,” Finance and Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera said yesterday.
The Minister made these comments to the media after handing over nomination lists to the Pasgoda, Malimbada and Hakmana Pradeshiya Sabhas and the Weligama Urban Council at the Matara District Secretariat last morning.
Prior to handing over nominations, Minister Samaraweera accompanied by Law and Order and Southern Development Minister Sagala Ratnayaka and Member of Parliament Buddika Pathirana paid homage to the sacred Matara Bodhiya.
“It was just over two years ago that the three of us submitted our nominations seeking the peoples mandate to form a government. On being elected to power we brought change by establishing democracy and bringing development to the nation.
Law and Order and Southern Development Minister Sagala Ratnayaka reiterated what Minister Mangala Samaraweera said that all measures would be taken to conduct a peaceful election.
“We took development to the villages but if we are given the mandate to govern the local authorities, we would be able to speed up the development process,”Minister Ratnayaka said.
Minister Ratnayaka said the United National Party would be fully committed to ensuring a free and fair election.
He added that no one should forget the situation in the country before January 8, 2015.
“We have now ushered in a new political culture. That is why are coming forward to protect the rights of the voters and ensure a free and fair election election,” Minister Ratnayaka said.
He said that the government is in the process of strengthening the country’s economy and rebuilding the nation.
“We need the Local Government bodies to work in line with our national agenda. That is the intention which we launch our election campaign,” the Minister added. He said people in the Matara disrict gave strength and momentum for the formation of the national unity government.
“We need to move forward with the same vigour and strength, at this election,” the Minister added.
“Some have now forgotten the track record of the defeated political elements. They have also forgotten how their cronies made money through government contracts. We request them not to forget the past. Also, we invite them to join hands with us, and embark on this victorious journey,” Ratnayaka said.
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