President Anura Kumara Dissanayake elaborated on his administration’s stance against unchecked political privileges, highlighting that all former presidents, like ordinary citizens, should formally apply for any benefits, including housing. “If a former president doesn’t have a residence and genuinely needs one, they must fill out an application,” he said. “Our system isn’t one where they can just take whatever they want without following protocol.”
Addressing criticisms that his government’s reforms may seem like “revenge,” President Dissanayake clarified that these actions are intended to restore a fair and lawful governance system, not target individuals. “We’re calling back any benefits that were not granted according to the law, the constitution, or official circulars. This isn’t revenge; it’s simply restoring what is rightful,” he affirmed.
The President also criticized the culture of entitlement that has pervaded politics in the past, where certain politicians expected privileges without any formal justification. Under his administration, he emphasized, there will be no tolerance for undue advantage-taking. The National People’s Power government, he asserted, is setting a new precedent for transparency and accountability, aiming to “standardize” the benefits system so that only justified, lawful requests receive approval.
Dissanayake’s remarks drew applause from the rally, with attendees showing support for his vision of a more disciplined, rule-bound political culture. He assured the public that his administration’s policies would prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens and uphold equality in the distribution of state resources.
