Minister of Plantation Industries and Community Infrastructure, Samantha Vidyarathna, says that while former President Mahinda Rajapaksa misused the two-thirds majority he obtained after the war, the National People’s Force (NPF) will use its parliamentary majority for the benefit of the country.
Speaking at an election campaign meeting in Welimada, Minister Vidyarathna stated:
“After the war, Mahinda Rajapaksa came to power with a two-thirds majority. But he used that power for wrongdoing—fraud, corruption. He even built a tomb for his parents using state funds. In contrast, we, who now hold a two-thirds majority, are using that power for good.”
He revealed that a new bill is set to be introduced in Parliament on April 8 aimed at confiscating assets acquired illegally using public resources.
“If any official or politician has built illegal property by misusing government resources or public funds, we will pass the Confiscation Bill on April 8 with our two-thirds majority,” he emphasized.
Vidyarathna also addressed criticism that the government isn’t doing enough to prosecute corrupt officials.
“Some say we aren’t doing enough. But look—four former ministers are already being investigated. One is still missing. An IGP (Inspector General of Police) is already in custody. The complaint I filed back in 2016 regarding fraud and corruption in the Uva Provincial Council, which was ignored at the time, is now finally being investigated,” he said.
The minister’s remarks reflect the government’s push to enforce accountability and highlight its efforts to combat corruption within both past and present administrations.
