The Hon. M.K.M. Aslam

¶ 01 Thank you, Hon. Presiding Member.

¶ 02 We are debating regulations on repatriation of export proceeds and a resolution under the Essential Public Services Act. Export earnings are vitally needed today. When we formed this Government, many imports were banned—most notably vehicles. Through measures for economic stabilization, we created conditions for essential imports to resume. Thousands of vehicles were imported thereafter.

¶ 03 Today’s situation is different and not unique to Sri Lanka. Even strong economies like the USA and India are adopting protective measures in the current climate. Prime Minister Modi has even called on Indians to limit foreign travel to protect the economy. This is a temporary problem, not a permanent threat. If Government alone could solve it, we would not request public cooperation. During the ‘Didva’ cyclone, we did not tell people to fend for themselves; we told them to stay safe and the Government would meet their needs.

¶ 04 The present issue is not under the control of any single country’s economy or Government—it stems from international conditions and the Middle East war. Under the Government’s leadership, the people and exporters together must face this; only then can we protect the economy. The Opposition has no words or alternative ideas, so they politicize and distort this situation, instilling fear among exporters. This is a time when everyone must contribute.

¶ 05 On the “Easter” attack—278 innocent lives were lost; over 500 injured—an orchestrated social massacre. After it, the entire Muslim community suffered. Those who planned it now stage dramas to protect themselves, and some fall for those dramas.

¶ 06 We saw the illegal 52-day Government during President Maithripala Sirisena’s term—created in a wrong manner—corrected only when all parties, including ours, fought together. Similarly, when Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake was wronged, all joined to secure justice. When wrong occurs, all must unite.

¶ 07 But today’s hunger strikes and protests are to shield the conspirators behind the Easter attack—the greatest act of destruction in our recent history, killing over 50 foreign tourists including children. If we are to correct this wrong, the conspirators must be punished, so that all—Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, Malay, Christians—can live safely. If the conspirators are shielded, future plots will be hatched to win power or elections.

¶ 08 I ask Muslim, Tamil, and Christian MPs in the Opposition: your leader attended the book launch of Udaya Gammanpila, a key conspirator’s ally; the SJB General Secretary attended events to protect Gotabaya Rajapaksa after a travel ban. How can your leadership, Muslim intellectuals, Ulema, and MPs defend conspirators of the Easter attacks? Ask yourselves.

¶ 09 We should not seek political gain or positions first; humanity and love for our country and people must come first. Sadly, the Opposition will ally with anyone to protect their positions. As the National People’s Power, we will not align with such forces. We correct past mistakes and will not join bad company. I conclude.