President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, during a meeting held with his State Ministers, asked them to evaluate the amount of work that can be done from year to year and prepare a Five Year plan.

President Rajapaksa emphasised that future works should be done according to a plan.

He said officials may say that everything has been done and were in order, but strategies and plans were useless if they are confined only to their files and folders.

“You have to take them to the ground and make them a reality. It’s the key role of a State Minister,” the President said addressing the State Ministers at the Presidential Secretariat on Thursday.

The President told the State Ministers that they should initiate any programme with the simplest step and then make a big difference.

“A simple start can make a big difference over time. When we came to power in 2005, we even could not get out as there was garbage everywhere. There were three garbage mounds within 100 yards from my official residence at that time. Proper waste removal is an easy process. Every ministry can render a great service with simple tasks,”he said.

He said the State Ministers have been entrusted with the responsibility of working in agreement with the Minister on a common policy.

“It is our duty to meet the expectations of the people. Fulfil your responsibilities with the assistance of the officials. As promised, I will change the current political culture in the country. I am bound by that responsibility and you are as well. Also make the maximum out of this opportunity to shape your political life,” President added. By Lahiru Pothmulla