The Hon. M.K.M. Aslam

¶ 01 Thank you, Hon. Presiding Member. We are debating the resolution to strengthen the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption. Why is this debate necessary? Where does our country stand? The key cause of our bankruptcy was corruption and fraud. Countries like ours often lack proper legal and institutional tools to combat it. Even when a Commission existed, it lacked adequate facilities. Through this resolution, 971 officers will be provided, and their salary issues will be addressed.

¶ 02 Although Sri Lanka is a beautiful and resource‑rich country, we recently became bankrupt. Our political leaders were big thieves—ruling through theft and lies—supported by some officials, while 90% of officials who truly love the country could not serve. Today there is an environment where Government, officials and people act with a shared purpose. In that context, this resolution is presented. We have established a Government that can fulfill the people’s aspirations. Officials and people are working with us. However, we do not see an Opposition that can deliver on the people’s aspirations.

¶ 03 Within about 18 months, the NPP Government has faced many challenges, including natural disasters like the Ditcha catastrophe. We stood with the people and delivered the maximum service; the people accept this. Even when refugees came—from places like Burma—our opponents politicized it, claiming the NPP Government failed to care for them. But we treated them with dignity and provided all facilities. Similarly, the Israel–Palestine issue was politicized to attack the Government, but those attempts failed. The people accept the NPP Government as a humane administration. Though small, our country safeguarded its sovereignty, acted per international law, and humanely rescued sailors from the attacked Iranian ship.

¶ 04 Though the Middle East war continues, the NPP Government is handling its impacts while steering the nation out of bankruptcy and carefully meeting people’s needs. We had many opportunities to work together; the people and officials joined us. But a group elected by the people focused only on political survival. Despite all challenges, the NPP Government has succeeded. Our intentions are clean, and we act accordingly.

¶ 05 Let me also note contradictions in the Opposition. One MP says humanitarian rescue of Iranian sailors wasted Sri Lankan money and was a crime, while another, Hon. Mujibur Rahuman, sensitively says we must help those sailors and meets the Iranian Ambassador. Which is the SJB’s stance—the humanitarian one, or the one that calls it a crime? The Leader of the Opposition should clarify whose position he shares. We must understand these matters. We came to power through change and have already delivered on 20 out of 30 pledges. Today’s debate concerns another such pledge: to eradicate corruption and fraud. Those who robbed the Central Bank now say MPs’ pensions should be abolished, and those who openly did the sugar tax fraud now lecture against corruption. The people know better. They trust the NPP Government to realize their aspirations. Thank you.