Sajith says SJB ready to heal suffering of people

• Buoyed by massive anti-Rajapaksa rally, calls on people to prepare for new Govt.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa yesterday assured that he was ready to heal the suffering of the people and called on them to prepare to form a new Government.

“Get ready to form a real people’s Government which will find solutions to all the grave issues you all face at present with the rising cost-of-living and shortage of essential commodities,” he told the crowds that marched towards Galle Face from the Opposition Leader’s office down Marcus Fernando Mawatha.

He said the rally was successful, adding that he had come in the face of all efforts of the Government to stop the people rallying around the SJB. 

“Excessive amounts of laws were cited to oppress the Opposition. Everyone has the right to express themselves. We are ready to build up our society and form a new Government. We will heal the suffering of the people,” Premadasa said.

Although the Government has a two-thirds majority and the President is vested with a lot of powers as per the 20th Amendment to the Constitution, Premadasa said the Government was frightened of the Opposition. 

“The Government is trying to control SJB instead of COVID-19,” he quipped.

He also pointed out that the Sapugaskanda refinery had been closed for the first time in its history after it was established 51 years ago.  

“The Government has created a long queues era again to purchase fuel, milk powder, sugar and cement. Aren’t you fed up by this curse? It is definitely enough,” he said.

The SJB originally planned to hold the rally at Hyde Park Corner, but after court had denied permission, later decided to shift it to Galle Face roundabout.