The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, today is 22 May—Republic Day. On 22 May 1972, under the United Front Government led by the late Sirimavo Bandaranaike, our country attained full independence. Though we celebrate 4th February, we achieved full sovereignty on a day like today in May 1972 under the Sri Lanka Freedom Party’s United Front Government.

¶ 02 On the current regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act: Minister Sunil Handunnetti stated that the Hon. Archchuna had said not to send Elephant Pass salt to the South. That is exactly what we have been pointing out. Accept that reality now and stop belittling our war victory. Do not call our heroes mere “soldiers.” Recognize them as war heroes.

¶ 03 Let us recall the history: The war did not begin with us. Alfred Duraiappah was killed by the Tigers; then July 1983 occurred; later, as Vadamarachchi operations were culminating, India intervened in 1987 with the Indo–Lanka Accord and imposed Provincial Councils, which we (SLFP and JVP) opposed. President R. Premadasa later sent back the IPKF; on 05.05.1990, Northern and Eastern police stations were overrun after our officers were ordered to raise white flags; 675 surrendered officers were massacred. Many leaders—Ranjan Wijeratne, C. V. Gooneratne, and even President Premadasa—were assassinated. No Sinhala leader wanted war; we were forced.

¶ 04 Peace talks under different governments failed. In 2006, after Mavil Aru, the LTTE reignited war; we did not ask for it. Thousands of our youth from Kurunegala, Polonnaruwa, Badulla, Monaragala, Matara, Galle, and elsewhere sacrificed their lives. Do not demean that victory.

¶ 05 On agriculture policy errors after 2019 and the fertilizer crisis: when mistakes are made, leaders must be told frankly to correct course. I have always spoken directly. We must not repeat errors that led to unrest and tragedy. Ministers come and go, but backbenchers and the people pay the price. Value the war victory, hold our war heroes in the highest esteem, and never undermine their sacrifice. Thank you.