Cassilingham slams NPP over failure to assist flood-affected people in North

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Politbureau Member and District Organizer of Jaffna, Geethanath Cassilingham has accused newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Northern Province representing the National People’s Power (NPP) of failing to assist people affected by the devastation caused by Cyclone Fengal.

“The newly elected MPs from the North from the NPP have failed to assist the affected people,” Cassilingham said, highlighting that over 250,000 individuals across the country, including thousands in Jaffna, are reeling from severe floods. The disaster has already claimed 10 lives, leaving many families in dire need of food, shelter, and medical aid.

“When a natural disaster strikes, it is the government’s duty to provide immediate assistance, such as food, medicine, and other essentials. However, despite days of heavy rains and severe floods, the newly elected MPs from the North have done little more than show up for photo opportunities,” he alleged.

Cassilingham emphasized that no significant aid had been dispatched to the affected areas by the NPP representatives, leaving victims reliant on parties like the SLPP, which he claimed has been actively delivering food and medicine. “We have been on the ground day and night, planning ahead and responding promptly to Met Department warnings,” he said.

Criticizing the NPP further, he said, “They won a landslide victory in the North, with people expecting responsible governance. Yet, within weeks, they have failed to fulfill their duties, leaving affected families to suffer.”

He also blamed President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for authorizing relief only after districts were inundated. “The heavy rainfall was predicted weeks ago. Instead of preparing, the NPP MPs were celebrating their success and taking selfies in Parliament,” Cassilingham remarked.

The SLPP leader concluded by calling for responsible governance, saying, “The country needs lawmakers who are committed to their people, not those who abandon their duties during times of disaster and need.”