President Ranil Wickremesinghe has made significant pre-election promises during his recent visit to Jaffna, aiming to address both technological advancements and local grievances.
During the Jaffna District Youth Conference at Duraiappah Stadium, President Wickremesinghe responded to a youth’s question about improving Wi-Fi connectivity outside Colombo. He revealed that he had discussed integrating the global ‘Starlink’ network with Sri Lanka with tech billionaire Elon Musk. This initiative aims to resolve connectivity issues in remote areas. They also explored the potential of solar energy and other renewable sources in the country. The President extended an invitation to Musk to collaborate on significant projects in Sri Lanka.
The Telecommunication Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) has been tasked with assessing the ‘Starlink’ network, with most preliminary work completed. The project awaits feedback from the Ministry of Defence to proceed. Wickremesinghe met Musk on the sidelines of the 10th World Water Forum High-Level Meeting in Indonesia, where they discussed the implementation of ‘Starlink’ in Sri Lanka. Musk was in Bali to launch Starlink satellite internet service in Indonesia, underscoring his commitment to expanding global connectivity.
Further, President Wickremesinghe addressed the grievances of two women during his visit to Puthukkudiyiruppu Madhya Maha Vidyalaya for the freehold deeds distributing ceremony in the Mullaitivu district under the “Urumaya” program. The event took an unexpected turn when two local women protested, seeking to speak directly to the President about their unresolved land issues.
Northern Province Governor P. S. M. Charles intervened, and upon hearing their concerns, President Wickremesinghe personally engaged with the women. They revealed that 56 families, including themselves and residents of Keppapilau village, were in distress due to unresolved land issues. The President assured them he would instruct relevant departments to investigate and expedite the resolution of their problems. He highlighted ongoing government efforts to release substantial land plots in the Northern Province, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to resolving land disputes swiftly.
The women expressed their gratitude for the President’s willingness to listen and his proactive approach to seeking solutions, demonstrating his commitment to addressing both technological and local human concerns in Sri Lanka.
