The Hon. Sunil Biyanwila

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, when discussing taxes we must recall the 76-year political malaise. During the last administration’s crisis, people abandoned many aspects of life—cinemas closed; social bonds reduced to meeting only at funerals. The crisis deprived people of quality food; they bought substandard goods; health suffered; creativity declined as arts and sports receded. Recognizing the crimes of 76 years of misrule, people decided to vote for the National People’s Power. Some in the Opposition now say nothing visible has happened in 100 days; you cannot fix 76 years in 100 days. But we have made many changes, especially in political culture: NPP MPs do not steal or take contracts. We are removing many longstanding impediments to development.

¶ 02 On the ground, the Opposition lacks a base; their grassroots have joined hands with Malimawa. People across parties are working with us without political divisions. As we implement development and meet people’s needs, we act fairly, not politically. We believe unity will rebuild the economy.

¶ 03 Opposition Members have raised the coconut issue. Why a shortage? Earlier, a sack of coconut fertilizer cost Rs. 40,000 and was unavailable. Without fertilizer, yields fell; pests and diseases increased; production dropped. We are addressing this quickly and strengthening cultivators, while they adopt methods to raise output, with Government support.

¶ 04 Past political culture also pushed farmers away from agriculture, discouraging the next generation. Now, under Malimawa, agriculture and tourism are prioritized. We believe we can restore agriculture. Lacking ground criticism, the Opposition throws mud at our active MPs—including women. However, our Members have shown they can face any challenge and make sacrifices.

¶ 05 We promised to move the country forward and build a happy nation. We implement the people’s—not the Opposition’s—agenda. We invite the Opposition to understand this and join us to realize the long-awaited goals and make Sri Lanka one of the best countries. Thank you.