"The opposition is afraid to go among the people and is trying to overthrow the government—this is a dream.
On February 17, we will present a budget for the poor."
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that a group of opposition MPs have requested the Election Commission to postpone the local government election.
She made this statement while addressing a public meeting held at the Mahaweli Theater in Aralaganwila 14th January.
Speaking further, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said:
"This government was elected by the people, and the people will protect it. They voted for this government in the last election with the expectation of transforming the country. Our government has a responsibility to fulfill these expectations. To achieve this, studies are being conducted in all sectors, and transformations are being made based on data.
The government is working hard to provide quality education for the children of this country. This year budget will make significant contributions to education.
The education reforms and policies introduced by previous governments did not include a proper program for teachers. Our government is focusing on improving teacher attitudes, providing training, and enhancing professionalism by equipping teachers with modern educational knowledge.
Until now, appointments and transfers of teachers and principals were influenced by political pressure. That will no longer happen. Today, public officials can work freely, without political interference. There are several vacancies for teachers, principals, and education administrators, and some transfers have not been properly executed. In the future, we will eliminate teacher disparities and ensure that all schools have teachers for every subject.
I visited the Polonnaruwa District specifically to assess the educational situation here. Many schools lack teachers There are no infrastructure facilities. But when we went to Polonnaruwa city, there were many large and comfortable buildings. It was revealed that approximately six billion rupees had been spent on constructing buildings in Polonnaruwa, yet no proper toilets were built for school children. This situation must change. Through the education reforms planned for 2026, we will establish a system where all children in this country can enter society with the necessary skills and confidence for the future."
Speaking at the event, Polonnaruwa District Leader and Deputy Minister of Housing Development T.B. Sarath stated:
"Our government has ensured a profit for farmers that has never been provided before. By removing production costs, we have given farmers a 30% profit. The opposition cannot accept this success and is making false allegations against the government. Since they have no valid reason to criticize us, some media outlets are spreading baseless accusations against government ministers and MPs.
The relief was provided by guaranteeing a fair price—not for corrupt politicians or elite individuals from Colombo 7 who falsely claim to represent farmers. This support was for the real farmers who produce rice for the people of this country. The guaranteed price of rice will not be increased in any way."
A large number of people, including the Maha Sangha, public representatives, and party members, attended the event.
Prime Minister’s Media Division