The Hon. Muneer Mulaffer - Deputy Minister of National Integration

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, thank you for the opportunity to speak on the Regulations under the Foreign Exchange Act, the Regulations under the Public Debt Management Act, and the Gambling Regulatory Authority Bill.

¶ 02 Recently, social media and some media asked whether 52 government MPs had crossed to the Opposition. My consistent answer: from the day we formed the government, 43 of ours have been sitting in Opposition—that count is off by a bit! When the Opposition lacks substance, they manufacture stories and spread false narratives.

¶ 03 Some Opposition members spoke about “mafias”. They forget those networks were nurtured under their own political journeys. They fed and grew them.

¶ 04 On the “hartal” called yesterday by some defeated parties in the North and East, people rejected it; shops were open. Even leaders who represent those areas know it failed. This shows people now want a government that identifies common enemies and goals across communities, rather than divisive politics. Elections rejected them, and so did the hartal.

¶ 05 To those creating confusion over Arugam Bay: even within their own camp, their local council leaders contradict their stance. Put your own house in order before spreading misinformation.

¶ 06 On gambling, as Muslims we have a principled position. Lastly, I urge: do not misuse religion in politics. In Pottuvil, at a meeting, someone compared a local political alliance to the “victory of Makkah.” Please study that history, its sacrifice and devotion, before dragging such lofty matters into petty politics.

¶ 07 Thank you.