The Hon. Imran Maharoof

¶ 01 Thank you, Hon. Presiding Member. I first thank Almighty God for the opportunity to deliver my first speech in the 10th Parliament. I extend heartfelt thanks to the people of Trincomalee District, who have elected me for a third consecutive time since 2015, and to all supporters who worked tirelessly without expectation.

¶ 02 Much is said about non-communal politics. Since 2012 I have practiced non-communal politics. My father, former State Minister M.E.H. Maharoof, was elected in 1977, and since then we have followed non-communal politics. It is because of that that Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Christian people of Trincomalee voted to send me here again. I thank them sincerely.

¶ 03 Today, 159 NPP MPs have been elected and a new government formed, amid great public expectations. Yet from the debates of recent days, it appears our political culture has not changed; people do not want the same old culture. In the previous Parliament, many spoke like some do now — always criticizing past politicians, parties, and governments. People created this new government to change that culture. They expect to see what change you will bring.

¶ 04 We are happy to see many new, especially young, MPs speak. We too expect such change, and we urge the government to be clear on how you will deliver it. People voted for you with immense expectation — not only for results but for a different political culture.

¶ 05 Many in government were swept in by a “people’s tsunami.” Look at who lost and who won — it is clear who the people prefer. Please abandon a politics of constant criticism and take up the genuine political journey people expect.

¶ 06 Opposition members raise issues. Some on the government benches were not in opposition before — remember what you told the people: “Within 24 hours of forming our government, we will bring many changes.” People now expect what you promised on campaign platforms.

¶ 07 On bar permits: this was a central topic in both the presidential and general elections. A list has now been published, but it lacks clarity. In Trincomalee, four permits are said to have been issued. Were they given to a former minister, to politicians, or to those who supported the previous government? Because of the lack of clarity, people are confused. Please clarify who actually received them.

¶ 08 We welcome talk of ending communal politics. That is good. But on what basis and how will it be pursued? For example, it is said no Muslim has been appointed to the Cabinet — if Muslims raise that, is it communal? Historically, Muslims have served in Cabinets. Saying “there are no Muslims in this Cabinet” is not communalism. Similarly, in some areas of the East and North where Muslims and Tamils live in larger numbers, Government Agents have not yet been appointed. Is it communal for Tamil-speaking people to ask for their due? We only ask that qualified people be appointed appropriately. The government should pay attention.

¶ 09 We, especially the young opposition MPs, expect the very change people anticipated — a just, fair, and clean politics honoring the mandate given to you. Please deliver that change.