The Hon. R.M. Samantha Ranasinghe

¶ 01 Thank you, Hon. Presiding Member, for this opportunity. As a new MP representing Kegalle District, I first express sorrow at the passing of our colleague Hon. Kosala Nuwan Jayawira. I also thank the nearly 42,000 voters and supporters who brought me here.

¶ 02 We entered politics about two decades ago to correct a troubled society. As youth, we saw burdens on working people—public, private, estate, and farming communities—and innocent children. We did not imagine power would come so quickly, but the people embraced our movement and granted historic victories on 21 September, followed by another resounding mandate in local government.

¶ 03 Now we have a President and a strong Parliament, and with the majority of local bodies under NPP control, a foundation to work at the grassroots. In just six months, many things are changing that earlier rulers could not change in decades. Political culture is shifting positively. There may be small shortcomings, but they are not deliberate; we are correcting course.

¶ 04 Our Ministers are working tirelessly—meeting people, holding clinics, managing Parliament. Transformations are happening in many sectors. For example, in transport, the Minister outlined the hardships faced by passengers and is laying foundations for major reforms. In education, after prolonged difficulties for students, teachers, and parents, new proposals are being discussed. In health, we are addressing medicine shortages and systemic shortcomings.

¶ 05 Today we debate the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill. Courts are congested; the public suffers delays. Having heard the Minister’s explanation this morning, I am convinced these reforms—especially integrating new technology—will deliver real improvements. Allowing remote appearances and evidence will ease burdens on distant parents and ordinary citizens fearful of court. These reforms answer many justice-sector challenges.

¶ 06 We will continue to focus our time and energy to set the country on the right path. Thank you.