Mahinda calls for UNP to unite and build a strong opposition

President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday called the main opposition United National Party to forget their differences and unite to build a strong opposition.

Condemning the attack on the UNP headquarters Sirikotha on Monday by the members of the pro-reforms group of the party, the President said he does not approve yesterday’s incident by any means.  The President pointed out that the current leader Ranil Wickremasinghe has been re-elected to the leadership of the UNP democratically with a vote.  He made these remarks during a meeting with the news directors of electronic and printed media and editors-in-chief held at the Temple Trees yesterday.

President Rajapaksa speaking of the report of the Lesson Learnt and Reconciliation Commission said the government’s view on the report has been presented to the parliament and the government is prepared to fully implement the recommendations of the Commission.  He informed the media that the government always strives to reveal the truth and has taken measures according to legal regulations regarding persons responsible for certain incidents that had taken place during the war period.

Responding to media queries on the issue of transporting vegetables and fruits in plastic crate, the President said there will be no change in the government policy regarding utilisation of plastic containers.

The problem has arisen due to the failure to enlighten the farmers on this issue and during the discussion he had with the farmers and the traders, they were properly educated on the benefits, the President said. Farmers themselves have requested the one-month relief period, he added.

External Affairs Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris, Media and Information Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and Information, W.B Ganegala were present at this occasion.