Saturday Sep 21, 2024
Saturday Sep 21, 2024
Monday, 11 October 2021 05:37 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa yesterday assured that steps would be taken to introduce a new Constitution and a new electoral system as promised to the people.
He gave this assurance during his speech at a ceremony to mark the 72nd Anniversary of the Army at the Gajaba Regiment Headquarters, Saliyapura, Anuradhapura.
The President said over the past two years, national security has been given priority by uplifting the self-esteem of the three armed forces and the Intelligence Services, by properly delegating their respective duties.
The President emphasised that he was committed to protecting the country from any recurrence of acts of terrorism or religious extremism.
President Rajapaksa also said that corruption and fraud would not be tolerated and that all officials should work for the people by making a commitment in this regard.
“No need to give excuses,” the President said, urging all Sri Lankans to extend their support to move forward the country accurately, under the notion of one country and one law without corruption.
He also said the economy was facing issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Nevertheless, a large number of development programs have been done for the benefit of the people during that period,” he said.
Rajapaksa said globally armed forces in the world are committed not only to war but also to nation-building. “Our Tri-Forces extended their support to the health sector in carrying out the vaccination drive and quarantine process in order to control the spread of COVID-19,” President said and expressed his gratitude to everyone for their commitment in this regard.
The Army was established under the Army Act No. 17 of 1949. The Army consists of 25 infantry, support and service regiments which have played a major role to ensure the security of the country.
The ceremony was organised adhering to health guidelines. President Rajapaksa inaugurated the newly constructed drill ground at the Gajaba Regiment Camp at Saliyapura and handed it over to the war heroes. Army Commander Gen. Shavendra Silva presented a memento to the President marking his visit to the Gajaba Regiment Headquarters.
