No point of calling Govt to impose lockdown - JVP

By Ajith Siriwardana  

Claiming that it was pointless appealing to the Government to impose lockdown as it was not heeding expert opinions, JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake yesterday requested people to go into self-lockdown for the sake of their-own safety. 

He told a news conference that the JVP as a party would stand with the people and provide any assistance if they had to face any issue in making such a decision.  

He said Government employees should stay at home even if they have been summoned for duty as they value their lives more than anything else.   

“We should not fall prey to ignorant decisions made by the Government and the ruler. We should ensure our own safety if the ruler is not heeding to our pleas. We, as a party will provide any possible assistance if they have to face any issue,” he said.  

Mr. Dissnayake said PHI Union had also requested people to go into self lockdown and take action for safety of the individuals and added that several cities were seen closed down due to the critical situation in the country.  
He said President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was acting only on instructions of State Intelligence Services and was disregarding the recommendations of medical experts.  

“The WHO together with local medical experts informed the Government of the action to be taken to curtail the escalating deaths and positive cases. Health Minister, State Minister Sudarshani Fernandopulle, GMOA, Cabinet of Ministers had pointed out the need to take immediate action. However, the President is only acting on the advice of the State Intelligence Services,” he charged.  

• We should not fall prey to ignorant decisions made by the Government and the ruler. We should ensure our own safety