Hakeem says not willing to betray people’s aspirations

“I am not prepared to discard the aspirations of the people by living in a Utopian state. I sincerely hope to carry out the duties given to me by the people of this country,” Minister of City Planning, Water Supply and Higher Education Rauff Hakeem said during the assumption of duties by State Minister of City Planning, Water Supply and Higher Education Lucky Jayewardenepura and Ministry Secretary Priyantha Mayadunne on 26 December at the Ministry premises in Battaramulla. 

Minister of City Planning, Water Supply and Higher Education Rauff Hakeem

“Water is the most important factor of living beings. It is equally important in any situation. Thus, I expect the fullest cooperation of the Ministry Secretary and the staff to meet the needs of this country. I do not live in a Utopian state. I am committed to fulfil the wishes of the general public and will assure you to do my best for the benefit of people in this country,” said the Minister, adding that he is ready to serve the people irrespective of his position. 

State Minister Jayawardena said: “I have worked closely with Minister Hakeem in the past. He is a very flexible gentleman. I together with the Minister will request the staff to render their support to meet the needs relates to water of this country.” A graduate from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Priyantha Mayadunne has held many positions prior to this appointment including the Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and Information, State Secretary Ministry of National Policies and Economic Development and Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources and Rural Economy. 

Former Secretary to the Ministry of City Planning, Water Supply Wasantha Hapuarachchi, Additional Secretaries Palith Weerasinghe, A.C.M. Nafeel, L. Mangalika, Chairman of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board K.A. Ansar, Deputy Chairman M.H.M. Salman, General Manager Deepthi Sumanasekara, Director General of National Community Water Projects Jayathileke Herath, Personal Secretary M. Naimullah and several senior staff members were present at the occasion.