This election is not about selecting the best speaker, entertainer, or announcer - Namal

Colombo, September 17 (Daily Mirror) - "This election is not about choosing the best speaker, entertainer, or announcer. It’s about creating a free and safe country, easing the burden of taxes, securing a bright future for your children, and improving business prospects for the future," presidential candidate Namal Rajapaksa said in a rally organized in Ratnapura today.

Addressing the rally, he said that the SLPP election manifesto does not include any policy that they cannot implement. We only promise what we are capable of delivering," he said.

He assured everyone that he would take responsibility for uniting and developing the country without causing division. Therefore, Namal Rajapaksa urged the people to go to the polling stations on election day (21).

"Some may try to threaten you at the polling stations. Certain political members have claimed they will intimidate people for attending our rallies because they lack a clear policy. Those who resort to threats are impatient and unable to handle victory and defeat," he said.

We do not want to frighten the people and take their votes, he said.

For the first time, there are three Rajapaksas on the ballot paper. However, the original Namal Rajapaksa is representing the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), recognized by the 'Pohottuwa' symbol.

"I thought Namal Rajapaksa was the only one in parliament, but there are actually three Rajapaksas on the ballot paper, including two named Namal. He, therefore, urged voters not to rely on names when casting their vote, but to check the election symbol carefully," he said.

"Under our government, we aim to transform this country into a global hub for the gemstone industry. Currently, Thailand and Dubai have established themselves as key centres for gems. By implementing our policies, we are confident that we can position our nation as a leading destination for the global gemstone trade, enhancing both its reputation and economic potential in this sector," candidate Namal Rajapaksa added.