Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe sent a letter to current President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, asking for 16 chefs, 163 security guards, and 20 vehicles, according to President Dissanayake, who revealed this yesterday. Speaking at the National People’s Power’s (NPP) first rally for the upcoming general elections in Hambantota, President Dissanayake stated that the government will not meet these demands. He emphasized that the government has been given the people’s mandate to stop the misuse of public resources.
The President criticized politicians who have long taken advantage of public property, saying they now feel entitled to it. He mentioned that 16 vehicles, including two ambulances, provided for two former presidents, have been recalled. In line with new regulations, only three vehicles will now be given to former presidents, and none will be maintained using public funds.
Addressing the rally in Hambantota, President Dissanayake announced:
“A nationwide community cleanup will take place on November 14. The people of this country have long wanted to replace this corrupt and unpleasant parliament with a clean one. Shortly after we won the presidential election, we dissolved the parliament to give the people the chance to clean it on November 14.
Before the people could clean it, some politicians voluntarily removed themselves. In Hambantota, for the first time in 88 years, there will be no familiar names on the ballot. While we don’t have the exact numbers, over 60 people have resigned voluntarily. We are confident that the people will finish the job on November 14.
To make our victory in the presidential election a lasting one, the National People’s Power needs a strong parliament. This Hambantota district has been key to many of our victories. The people here have supported our political movement during the toughest times, and we believe they will bring the strongest support to the NPP.
We will lead the country to success, step by step, with strength and determination. Some may try to disrupt us, but we won’t be bothered. Our country needs a new political culture, and as politicians, we must be the first to sacrifice for it. As leaders, we must show our dedication to creating a positive political culture.”
