Will Not Retreat from Controversial Decisions: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake

04-Sep-2025

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake declared that he will not shy away from making controversial decisions to ensure national reconciliation, nor will he retract measures taken against racist slogans of the past. “Every citizen has the right to know what happened to their loved ones, as well as the right to land ownership and to live in their native places,” he said.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Northern Coconut Triangle Project under the theme “Prosperous Nation – Nurturing Tree – Bountiful Karppagatharu”, held in Pudukuduirippu on September 2, the President stressed that racists will inevitably protest progressive decisions, but their voices will not be allowed to prevail.

He further stated:

“We know this region has been left behind and scarred by conflict. Families here have lost children, relatives, and property. In the recent elections, the people of the North placed their trust in us, and we now carry the responsibility of restoring a better life.

The first priority is safeguarding the rights of the people—land rights, language rights, cultural rights, and the right to know the fate of their missing relatives. These are basic human rights, and we have already initiated measures to protect them.

Economically, this region must be uplifted. The conflict stunted its progress, and it is our duty to create a strong economic environment. New economic zones, tourism development, and agricultural facilities are being introduced, with coconut cultivation taking precedence. This year alone, 16,000 acres will be cultivated, benefiting nearly 12,000 families.

Reconciliation also requires cultural unity. That is why we will celebrate National Day inclusively. Ethnic politics, used in the past to gain power both in the North and South, was defeated by the people in the recent elections. Yet, some defeated forces are again trying to weaponize racism. This country must not give space to such politics.”

The President reaffirmed:

“We will not step back from controversial decisions necessary for national harmony. We will not roll back measures against racist slogans. The people of this country must unite—North, East, and South together—to rebuild our nation.”