The Hon. Sundaralingam Pradeep - Deputy Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, the existence of democracy in a country is evidenced by the regular conduct of elections. The local authority elections scheduled for 9 March 2023 were not held because the then President, Ranil Wickremesinghe, said there was no money and no need. We consider that monetary rule over democratic rule—burying democracy.

¶ 02 The services due to people from birth to death through local authorities have been obstructed these last two years. In the plantation areas, prior to 2018, legal impediments prevented elected local members from serving estate communities. Through reforms in good governance times, local bodies could serve estates through consultation with management without prior rigid permissions. Postponing elections has denied plantation communities these gains—an anti-democratic act.

¶ 03 Notably, local elections offer plantation women an opportunity to engage in politics. In the past, women from plantations proudly served as local members. Those who abolished all this now create confusion in Parliament. When we look at their faces, we see their fear: they know people’s verdict if elections are held. Asking people whether they want elections is laughable; the people clearly want elections.

¶ 04 Estate companies have curtailed services and welfare. Local councils had been attending to roads, drinking water and other needs. With suspended services, people suffer. The Opposition gives reasons to delay: G.C.E. O/L exams, or the Budget Debate affecting campaigning. I say people want democracy. Just as Ranil Wickremesinghe acted against elections, today some Opposition Members act similarly—we strongly condemn this. The NPP Government’s aim is to hold elections regularly to safeguard democracy. In line with the Supreme Court decision, I urge that the election be held immediately to protect democracy.

¶ 05 As a teacher, finally, let me say: this Government’s maiden Budget offers a ray of light to a country in darkness. It recognizes teachers with salary increases. Thank you.