The Hon. Rohana Bandara

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, at the first sitting after the New Year recess, I wish for a successful year where we overcome all challenges.

¶ 02 We have long debated the Port City. We built land by reclaiming sea to create a special economic zone competitive globally. Though accusations were made, what matters now is to reduce unnecessary burdens and bring in investors. May this area transform from a barren expanse into a zone attracting investors and global attention to Sri Lanka.

¶ 03 Amid such accusations, even Sigiriya Rock was metaphorically “spared” in the rhetoric; Opposition leaders once said even Sigiriya would not suffice to fill the sea for this project. Now other matters have emerged—our Grade 6 English textbooks even feature items like “stone industry” and “appa kade” (appam shop) as examples. What direction are we taking our education and culture? Strong criticism has been leveled, including at the former female Prime Minister who was once widely respected; questions arise whether the Government can simply evade responsibility.

¶ 04 On the so-called “stone industry” matter, I come from a region with a proud heritage in stonecraft. Instead of measured reform via a White Paper and broad consultation, material seems to have been rushed into print and children exposed directly. Questions arise about selective payments to English-trained teachers and whether there was undue influence from the Education Ministry or other quarters. We must take education towards vocational excellence—but not normalize prostitution or legalize such a “profession.” Safeguard our culture and prevent such directions. Parents should be vigilant about the destiny these policies are steering their children toward. There have been repeated proposals like Rs. 5,000 for students, certain sexual education approaches, and limiting discipline by teachers and parents. This pattern is problematic; preserve our culture.

¶ 05 We also face attempts to manufacture issues—like over Venezuela. The JVP’s statement differs from the Foreign Ministry’s. While it may not concern the public directly, in international dealings, ambiguity is harmful. Since the JVP is a key part of the Government alliance, its statements must consider the country’s interest. Concerns have been conveyed to former President Donald Trump and the U.S. Embassy; replies have been received. We must not create non-existent issues and endanger our country internationally.

¶ 06 We know Sri Lanka has been used as a hub for drug trafficking; the Venezuela/Maduro link allegations were sent highlighting such concerns. This could create new threats and affect Indian Ocean security. We urge the Government: hold any political views you wish, but do not mislead voters and then mislead the international community, pushing Sri Lanka into sanctions or crises.

¶ 07 Do not falsely claim the President is “using Parliament.” During disasters, timely action is needed; after the cyclone, the President made many promises in Parliament that raised public expectations. In Anuradhapura, where both you and I are from, the District Coordinating Committee showed 22,838 affected families; only about 13,000 were selected for compensation, leaving over 10,000 out. Housing grants of Rs. 50,000 were earmarked for fewer than the affected; student assistance reached only a portion of the 10,575 schoolchildren affected. Political bias and arbitrary criteria seem to be at play.

¶ 08 Another issue: at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, the radiotherapy machine has been non-operational since early January; doctors have requested action for years. Temporary or smaller-capacity solutions have not been provided, even though many cancer patients rely on this service. Similarly, equipment from one hospital was shifted to another (Tambuttegama) due to presidential links—please focus on upgrading Tambuttegama’s operating theatre and ensure Anuradhapura gets the required radiotherapy unit.

¶ 09 On Civil Security Department personnel: they were earlier told they would receive Rs. 3 million as compensation upon termination. That was deemed unfair, and now they are being transferred without compensation, disrupting livelihoods. These are ordinary villagers trained only to handle basic security needs. If they must be retired, do so with fair compensation, not by arbitrary transfers causing mental distress. I conclude with this appeal. Thank you.