The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi

¶ 01 Madam Deputy Chairperson of Committees, I first express my sorrow and condolences for our Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher people who suffered, lost lives, or went missing due to Cyclone “Ditva” and the flood situation.

¶ 02 Immediately upon seeing the disaster, people from the South—especially our fishing communities—rushed to rescue victims, spending their own money, bringing boats, jet skis, and engine boats on lorries. I proudly thank the people of the South for this great humanitarian effort in rescuing those affected, feeding them, and providing all possible assistance.

¶ 03 I say this is a curse that befell our country because those in power lied to deceive the people and neglected the Buddha Sasana. I propose that the Maha Sangha be convened before the Sri Maha Bodhi, to seek forgiveness and govern righteously. This great calamity occurred because of lies. To save our country, we must prioritize the Buddha Sasana in governance. This is a Sinhala Buddhist country. Thank you for the opportunity, and again I convey my gratitude to the southern fishing communities for their service.