The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) is poised to launch its highly anticipated presidential election manifesto in the first week of September 2024. Party spokesperson Sanjeeva Edirimanna confirmed that the SLPP is in the final stages of crafting the policy statement, which is expected to outline the party’s strategic vision for the nation’s future.
At a recent rally in Nawalapitiya, SLPP’s Presidential Candidate, MP Namal Rajapaksa, placed significant emphasis on the ‘Samurdhi’ programme, which he described as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s poverty alleviation efforts. Addressing concerns from some quarters that the programme has not met its goals, Rajapaksa strongly defended its impact, asserting that Samurdhi has been instrumental in lifting many Sri Lankans out of poverty.
Rajapaksa criticized certain leaders for their negative views on the Samurdhi movement, arguing that these critiques fail to acknowledge the programme’s successes. He stated, “Some leaders think that the Samurdhi movement has failed, but it was the same movement that saved the people of this country from poverty.”
Looking ahead, Rajapaksa outlined a vision for evolving the Samurdhi programme beyond its current scope. He proposed policies that would not only strengthen the existing structure but also transform Samurdhi recipients into entrepreneurs. He pledged to create opportunities for the children of Samurdhi beneficiaries to secure employment in sectors such as technology and agriculture, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Rajapaksa’s proposals are expected to be a key component of the SLPP’s manifesto, which will also likely address broader issues such as economic reform, social welfare, and national security. The unveiling of the manifesto will mark a significant moment in the SLPP’s campaign as it seeks to position itself as the party of choice in the upcoming presidential election.
