“Taking Forward From Where My Father Left Off” – Namal Rajapaksha

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) presidential candidate Namal Rajapaksa has declared that it is his duty to continue the development program initiated by his father, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Speaking to the media after receiving blessings at the Peliyagoda Vidyalankara Pirivena on August 19, 2024, Rajapaksa emphasized his commitment to this cause.

When asked by a journalist about comments made by Rohitha Abeygunawardena, who questioned if such policies could be effectively implemented, Rajapaksa responded, “Did he say about me or about someone else? You should ask him directly.”

The journalist then probed further, asking if Rajapaksa could win the election without support from Tamil and Muslim voters. Rajapaksa replied, “Like other political parties, we do not change our policies to gain advantage during elections. Police and land powers cannot be given away; otherwise, the North East cannot be merged. This country cannot be divided.”

Finally, when questioned whether his campaign aimed to continue his father’s development efforts, Rajapaksa affirmed, “Obviously. We will continue the development of the country from where it stopped in 2015.”