Sajith pledges to modernise armed forces, Police

• Premadasa pledges new tech, training to face national security threats
• Says will not hesitate to authorise death penalty for terrorism, drug trafficking charges 
• Says will take digital technology to rural masses
• Premadasa claims that if elected, will bring tax reforms, simplify tax system
• Reiterates that he will eradicate corruption
• Pledges to empower youth with technology, English language skills

United National Party (UNP) deputy leader and DNF presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa yesterday pledged to modernise the armed forces and the Police with new technology and training, which would enable them to be better prepared to face emerging national security threats. 

Premadasa made the comments addressing a gathering of party faithfuls at Akmeemana in the South. He stated that it was essential that the nation’s security apparatus was modernised to face today’s challenges. Premadasa, departing from the UNP party policy, said that he will not hesitate to authorise the death penalty for those who are convicted on terrorism and drug smuggling charges, and receive the death sentence.

The presidential hopeful also pledged to bring in new technology and digitise the rural areas of the island. He emphasised the need to equip youth with digital skills, so that they can be more employable and competitive in the job market. Premadasa also pledged to uplift youth language skills by bringing English education to the youth.  

Premadasa also reiterated his pledge to wipe out corruption and malpractice in the Government and State sector. He also pledged to simplify the taxation system and bring tax reforms if elected.