The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, our Minister of Justice has already elaborated on the Anti-Corruption Act and amendments. The public mandate to this Government was built on a strong anti-corruption drive. We highlighted past fraud and corruption; today’s amendments ensure accurate declaration of assets and liabilities.

¶ 02 Some claim they might “forget” to include something. If your assets and properties are so extensive that you might forget, better to start listing them now; later you cannot say you were unable to declare. From 2011–2012 we mounted major efforts — complaints and cases — and some of those complainants are now, through court judgments, holding on to the power of Welikada Prison. They believe lies will carry them through; not anymore.

¶ 03 When making these amendments, the obligation is to state one’s assets and liabilities accurately; do not submit false information. The Opposition has long attempted to misrepresent actions of the current Government. Hon. Archchuna, please use your time to speak; you can present anything you wish then.

¶ 04 Recently, someone in Narahenpita spread a full set of lies alleging properties of the President and is now facing investigations. Also, regarding a statement by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, he is now holding media briefings to “correct” himself. He spoke about vehicle auctions in the North Central Province based on claims by a teachers’ union leader allied to them, alleging 22 vehicles were sold for Rs. 28 million and as scrap. Social media propagated this. I have here the North Central Provincial Council auction details, obtained after discussions with the Governor and officials, including the “Sithmini” newspaper notice: “Invitation for bids for sale of used and disposed luxury vehicles of the North Central Provincial Council.”

¶ 05 (Proceedings continued.)