Dilith Jayaweera Unveils Strategic Presidential Plan: A Blueprint for Sri Lanka's Future
Colombo, August 31, 2024 — Entrepreneur and Sarvajana presidential candidate Dilith Jayaweera today launched what is being called Sri Lanka’s first national strategic plan, crafted through public consultation. The unveiling ceremony, held this morning, introduced a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing some of the country’s most pressing issues.
The strategic plan, which comprises 61 main sections, is centered around 10 key pledges designed to reform the nation and pave the way for a more just, independent, and prosperous Sri Lanka.
Key Highlights of the Strategic Plan
Punishing the Corrupt:
Dilith Jayaweera’s plan includes a strong stance against corruption, particularly focusing on recovering over 650 billion rupees in defaulted debts from large-scale smugglers. These debts, owed to two state-owned commercial banks, will be reclaimed, and those responsible will face strict legal consequences.
Saving War Heroes:
Recognizing the sacrifices of Sri Lanka’s war heroes, the plan includes measures to protect and honor them, ensuring their well-being and safeguarding their legacy.
Justice for Easter Attack Victims:
Dilith has pledged to deliver true justice to the victims of the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks. He also plans to introduce a local mechanism for investigating genuinely missing persons and addressing religious extremism, aiming to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Eliminating Economic Dependency:
To reduce economic dependency, the plan proposes preventing the sale of public institutions while improving their management. Public-private partnerships will be fostered to attract private investment, with a controlling company established to centrally manage these enterprises.
Ensuring the Independence of the State:
Dilith’s strategy emphasizes safeguarding the independence of the state by enacting policies that protect against undue influence, both domestic and foreign.
Abolition of Caste Oppression:
In a move aimed at addressing social inequalities, particularly in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, Dilith plans to strengthen the Prevention of Social Disadvantages Act (1957). The act will be empowered to effectively combat and abolish caste-based oppression.
Defeating Social Conspiracies:
The strategic plan includes initiatives to identify and counteract social conspiracies that threaten national unity and stability.
Additional Strategic Initiatives
- Land Bank Creation: The “Heritage” project within the plan aims to prevent the forced sale of farmers’ land due to financial pressures. A land bank will be established to facilitate land purchases, ensuring that farmers retain ownership.
- Strengthening Public Institutions: The plan outlines measures to prevent the privatization of public institutions, focusing instead on their proper management and the creation of public-private partnerships to improve efficiency and attract investment.
A New Vision for Sri Lanka
Dilith Jayaweera’s strategic plan sets forth a bold vision for Sri Lanka, addressing corruption, economic independence, social inequality, and national security. “This plan is not just another manifesto; it is a strategic blueprint designed to bring about real change,” said Jayaweera during the launch. “It is time to move beyond empty promises and deliver results that will benefit every citizen of our nation.”
The plan has garnered significant attention and is expected to play a central role in Jayaweera’s campaign as the presidential election approaches. Whether it will resonate with the electorate and translate into votes remains to be seen, but it has certainly set the stage for a competitive and issue-focused election season.
Full details are given below…
