The main opposition UNP said today regardless of Minister Mervyn Silva claiming that he could not be removed from his portfolio, the people had the power to do so.

UNP MP Harin Fernando told a news conference the people had the power to get rid of ministers and the forthcoming elections would show the people’s power to do so.

“After period of silence we saw Mr. Silva making a statement that sending petitions against him is of no use. This is true. We can see that no matter how or what he does, he cannot be sacked. His opponents within his political party are unable to do it. Only the voter can change those who rule the country,” he said.

With regard to child rape and abuse cases, Mr. Fernando said, “The government has to take full responsibility for this menace. The people should raise their voices and demand a solution because the government is doing little or nothing about it.”

He alleged that the Navy and the STF were illegally acquiring land in the Ampara district. “This land which belongs to farmers and the Wildlife Conservation Department are being cleared for an army village, a navy base and a fancy hotel,” Mr. Fernando said and added that the government was trying to discourage supporters of former army commander Sarath Fonseka by describing him a traitor.

“We see Mr. Fonseka as a true patriot of this country although pseudo patriots claim that he is a traitor. Mr. Fonseka is a perfect example of a patriot because he suffered much for this country and refused to bow down to anyone,” Mr. Fernando said.

With regard to the Hambantota Harbor, he said unfortunately no ships call at the harbour but only people on pilgrimage who visit the place. (Nishan Casseem)


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