Hon. K. Kader Masthan

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, thank you for allowing me to join this Vote of Condolence. On behalf of the Sri Lanka Labour Party and the people of Vanni District, I convey deep condolences to the families of the four late former Members.

¶ 02 The late Rukman Senanayake, from the illustrious D. S. Senanayake family that laboured for independence, faced many challenges in politics, standing up for justice and benefits for the people, even clashing with leaders when necessary. He served his people both in and out of Parliament. I extend deep condolences to his family, friends, and supporters.

¶ 03 The late Reginald Perera of Gampaha District served courageously for the people of Gampaha and the Western Province. My condolences to his family, friends, constituents, and supporters.

¶ 04 The late Sirinal de Mel was a prominent trade unionist, active under late President J. R. Jayewardene and later during Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe’s time as well, contributing to many party victories. My deep condolences to his family, friends, and supporters.

¶ 05 Regarding the late Dr. I. M. Ilyas, there is much to say. Before politics, he was engaged in social service, as are his family today. When Muslims were expelled from the Northern Province in 1990, he raised his voice and worked for their needs, including resettlement, helping people live in peace again. He played a principal role in successfully organizing the 1996 Ijthima event in Puttalam.

¶ 06 He had a fighting spirit—leading protests on Palestine and Iran, and travelling from Puttalam to Colombo to join demonstrations. Though from Puttalam, he was elected MP for Jaffna by votes of displaced people living in Puttalam camps—showing he worked without discrimination. His family supported him significantly. We pray that he is granted Jannatul Firdaus and include him in our prayers. My condolences to his family and all who grieve. Wassalaam!