Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stated that a transparent process is underway to identify those responsible for the Easter attacks, including the groups and masterminds behind the incident.
Speaking at a rally organized by the ‘Dividena Ranaviru Balavegaya’ of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) at the Sugathadasa Stadium, Premadasa announced that war heroes would be positioned as the vanguard in the fight against corruption. These veterans would lead efforts to rid the country of corruption through the SJB’s anti-corruption program.
Premadasa emphasized that the country’s pressing challenge, the drug trade, will be eradicated with the support and contribution of war heroes.
He noted that the tri-forces, police, Civil Security Department, and other security sectors, which have played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation and maintaining territorial integrity, have often been used as political pawns during election periods. He asserted that SJB has consistently stood up for the rights of the tri-forces, police, and other security forces, both inside and outside Parliament, to protect their rights.
Presidential Task Force for War Heroes
The opposition leader also announced the establishment of a Presidential Task Force to resolve issues faced by the tri-forces, police, and Civil Security Department within 48 hours, adding that this initiative would begin on the 21st with a blessing of Rs. 220 million.
New Welfare Plans for War Heroes
Premadasa promised the implementation of the “One Rank One Pension” program and the creation of a separate department for war heroes, as the existing War Heroes Commission lacks adequate authority. This new department would provide war heroes with additional income-generating opportunities, including the provision of initial capital to start businesses and become entrepreneurs.
The “Dividena Ranaviru” program has consistently addressed issues within the tri-forces, police, and Civil Security Department. Premadasa explained that solutions have been developed to address any shortcomings in the military sector.
Enhanced Welfare for Disabled War Heroes
The opposition leader further noted that proper retirement benefits and 15% interest on fixed deposits will be provided to war heroes. The same interest rate would continue, and welfare programs for disabled war heroes would receive special attention. Premadasa stressed that war heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country must be protected and all benefits they are entitled to must be granted.
Uniting Beyond Ethnic and Religious Differences
Premadasa also pledged to create programs for the children of war hero families, as well as for Tamil families in the North and East. He emphasized the importance of uniting beyond ethnic and religious differences in the post-war era, calling for all nine provinces, including the North, East, South, and Western Provinces, to come together to fulfill this responsibility.
