President Ranil Wickremesinghe presenting the Government’s policy statement in Parliament yesterday (3) stated that he would take measures to establish a People’s Assembly in order to decide which social and political reforms should be implemented. President Wickremesinghe said that a mechanism to obtain views of all interested parties is being prepared through the People’s Assembly through the consultation of political parties, various organizations etc.
“I specially invite the youth engaged in activism and youth who are not to provide their views,” he added.
“People’s Assembly is a fully independent body with the Government only providing the necessary resources. The Government has no influence on its functions or decisions. We decide in consultation with various parties, regarding the composition of the People’s Assembly.” the President said.
President Wickremesinghe also said that he is willing to establish a National Assembly consisting of political party leaders. “For the next steps, we will be able to arrange a programme with a common minimum programme with the consent of all, through the National Assembly.” He also observed that measures are being taken to establish the Parliamentary Sectoral Oversight Committees immediately where all the political parties will have the opportunity to work together.
President Wickremesinghe reiterated the importance of an All-Party Government be formed with the support of all the parties.President Wickremesinghe also said that he would implement a national policy to combat bribery and corruption. “New rules and regulations and orders in this regard are being prepared by the Ministry of Justice.
A consensus will be reached with the International Monetary Fund regarding combating corruption.” the President observed.
President Wickremesinghe further said a Social Justice Commission will be established and a 25 year national policy framework to be formulated. President Ranil Wickremesinghe also requested protesters to vacate illegally occupied areas and support to maintain law and order. He said that law will be applied equally to the people who attacked the peaceful protesters on May 9 and those who are engaging in violence and terrorism under the guise of the struggle. President Wickremesinghe also observed that it is essential to provide a political solution to the issues faced by the Tamil community for a long time. They are suffering with many social and economic issues due to the hardships of war.
Add new comment