The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa

¶ 01 It is very clear from your speeches that you aim to undermine this moment. Meanwhile, those on the frontline for the Government in this effort—the Minister of Public Security, the State Minister, the IGP, senior police leaders, and the DG of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption—have been targeted by repeated attacks here and in some YouTube channels. Why target them now? Not for any other reason, but because they have taken responsibility and, despite risks to their lives, are acting for the country to suppress the underworld and drugs, and you seek to weaken them.

¶ 02 Now, your own Pradeshiya Sabha member has become a victim in a clash between armed underworld gangs. In such a situation, should you not think: “As even our own member has become a victim, let us support the Government, give bipartisan backing, and unite the country to eradicate drugs and the underworld”?

¶ 03 [Intervention by The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe – exchange]

¶ 04 If the Minister of Public Security stated an incorrect fact, you can challenge it—whether about cases, convictions, or sentences. I am not naming any individual. The Minister stated the context. But that is not what should take center stage now. This debate presented an opportunity for the SJB to elevate its politics by saying “Right, let’s launch this national movement together and uproot drugs and the underworld.” For whatever reason, you did not. Is it because you hope to form coalitions for local bodies, or to topple the Government in future? I do not know. But on an issue where no allegation is being made against you, why act so feebly? Once again, I invite all: we know a large team is working, risking their lives and their families’, to suppress black politics, black money and the underworld. Do not undermine them. Let us all unite and, in this window of opportunity, crush the underworld and drug trafficking.

¶ 05 Thank you.