The Hon. (Mrs.) Anushka Thilakarathne, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, in this disaster many in Nuwara Eliya District—Kotmale electorate in the East as well as Hanguranketha and Nuwara Eliya electorates—who lived in harmony with the land have made the ultimate sacrifice. As an MP for Nuwara Eliya, I express my deepest condolences. A large number remain displaced; as a Government we will look after them.

¶ 02 Kotmale’s eastern division has faced the worst tragedy in its history. The Police, Tri‑Forces, all state institutions, hospitals and staff have given their utmost—some officers have not removed their uniforms for days—to restore normal life. I appeal to all Sri Lankans: do not politicize and disturb the minds of traumatized people. We must uplift them and restore normalcy. Parents have lost children; children have lost parents. We must help them rebuild their lives and provide psychosocial support. This is not the time for base politics; act with conscience and help.

¶ 03 It is regrettable that some TV channels invite “special guests” whose talk further disturbs people in Kotmale. If they want politics, choose another time; do not agitate people now. Many Divisional Secretariat officers are working day and night.

¶ 04 In Rambodagama, a landslide took around 28 lives; about 22 remain missing with little hope. Road repairs are underway; broken bridges and culverts are being restored by the RDA, Provincial Road Development Authority, Police and others—working together without division of religion, race, or caste—to revive Kotmale.

¶ 05 We cannot restore lives, but we will provide all else. To the displaced and those looking up in hope: have faith; we will do everything possible to rebuild your lives. I pray for the departed and thank you for the time.