Member of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake stated that the United National Party (UNP), Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Muslim Congress, and Tamil parties will unite to appoint a mayor to Colombo who will advance the interests of the UNP.
He made this statement during a media conference, where he discussed how to progress the legacy brought to the Sri Lankan people over the past seventy-six years in a new and effective way.
“There were two important questions I raised in the last Parliament session. One was about how President Trump’s decision to reverse globalization would significantly impact us. Remember, two hundred thousand of our direct, innocent young women, as well as many businessmen, are engaged in producing garments for the American market. Not only that, but our tires, mattresses, and many other products are also exported to the United States.
When I raised this concern, I urged the government to pay attention to it and respond effectively. We have consistently emphasized the need to support entrepreneurs in this country and move the nation forward through their success.
We are pleased that the certificate of origin we introduced in 2016 is now being certified and progressing. Moreover, having a well-structured program with a forward-looking vision that aligns with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is essential.”
The MP further stated that he previously advocated for the abolition of parliamentary pensions and will propose the same again. He also suggested that the protection provided to members of parliament should be abolished and redirected toward the development of the country.
“By 2028, trade relations with Europe must be renewed in a proper and legal manner. The government needs to take appropriate steps to ensure this.
Some say that 76 years of political history is a curse, but we do not wish to hold privileges that ordinary people do not have. Additionally, they argue that insurance benefits for MPs should be discontinued.
An open economy is necessary because there is no other viable alternative. I am pleased that the current government is on the right path. It’s like a competition between two approaches, and we cannot afford to take the baton and go backward.
When we stated that the path we took was right, the opposition disagreed. Yet, now, they are doing exactly what we proposed when they are in power.”
MP Karunanayake also acknowledged that there are two problems when Ranil Wickremesinghe is in charge: “The UNP members who are taking the wrong path should be removed. We need to proceed on the correct path, and everyone in the party must come together to move forward. All parties, including the UNP, SJB, and others, should unite, and we will appoint the right person for Colombo.
Regarding the ongoing criticism about Batalanda, everyone’s opinion will have an impact. So, we should think about the future by putting aside these issues. We cannot play this political game alone.”
