Archives

Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapakse has assured his fullest support to the government for taking the peace process towards a successful conclusion.

Addressing the PA Parliamentary Group meeting at the Parliamentary complex yesterday, Opposition Leader Rajapakse said he would also support people-friendly policies and programmes of the government, while constructively criticising any wrong moves.

A news release from the Opposition leader's Office quoted Rajapakse as saying that he would constantly scrutinise security arrangements and direct the attention of the government to guarantee the security of the people.

He told the Parliamentary Group that the combined Opposition received more votes than the United National Front at the last General Election. The Opposition should attempt to fulfil the aspirations of those voters. No room will be left for the government to take any anti-democratic action.

Rajapakse expressed his gratitude to the President and the Party for the confidence placed in him. He thanked all MPs, media personnel and others who helped him throughout his political career.

Reminding the MPs of the services rendered by the former Opposition Leader Ratnasiri Wickremanayake to the country and to the party, Rajapakse said Wickremanayake was an experienced politician who deserves the respect of all.

"I succeeded him only because he resigned voluntarily," he added.

Gampaha District MP Reggie Ranatunga described Mahinda Rajapakse's new appointment as a major step that would contribute to the PA's return to power.

Kandy District MP Sarath Amunugama expressed the hope that the new Opposition Leader would actively contribute to reap the maximum benefits for the people out of the present cohabitational and consensual political framework. 

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries |

Produced by Lake House
Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager