Massive demonstration in support of Divi Neguma Bill

A massive demonstration was held near the Sri Jayewardene Parliamentary Complex roundabout on Tuesday, 18 September, demanding the immediate establishment of the proposed Divi Neguma Department.

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa presented in Parliament the bill for the establishment of the department which is expected to combine the Up-Country Development Authority, Up-Country Rural Rehabilitation Department, the Southern Development Authority, Samurdhi Commissioner General’s Department, and the Samurdhi Development Authority.

Nearly 4,000 demonstrators braving the mid-day sun stressed the need for the Government to establish the Divi Neguma Department without delay regardless of the opposition of a very small group. Demonstrators stressed that “even though a small group act against the proposed Divi Neguma Department, the majority expect the Government to implement it immediately.”

Samurdhi officials and Samurdhi beneficiaries were among those who participated in the demonstration. They included those from Ampara, the north, and the south of the country, representing the aspirations of 27,000 officials and over two million people who are looking forward to see the department soon becoming a reality. The participants were seen exchanging views with Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa on the issue.