Rasika Somarathna in Kandy

President Maithripala Sirisena in his inaugural address to the Nation from the hollowed precincts of the Most Sacred Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy yesterday, called on all political parties in Parliament to join him in forming a National Government.

President Sirisena also pledged that unlimited powers vested with the Executive Presidency will be transferred to Parliament, Cabinet, Judiciary and the public administrative mechanism. Noting at the outset that he was honoured to address the Nation from the hallowed premises of the Dalada Maligawa, President Sirisena said he has no intention in contesting for the Presidency again.

“This will be my first and last term as President,” he stressed. He also opined that the country does not need a King as its ruler but a true and compassionate human being who is committed at all times in fulfilling public aspirations and needs.

President Sirisena said the country should have a political culture free from violence in future and promised to strive for an economic, social and political transformation in the country as pledged in his election manifesto.

The President added that he will make the country’s foreign policy more meaningful by having cordial and fruitful relations with all nations and organisations of the world.

He added that he will obtain the support of all nations and organisations for the uplift of the country.

As a priority measure, the President said his government will take immediate steps to bring down the cost of living, end poverty and provide relief to the people.

“The destruction of ethical and socio-cultural values has led to grave suffering, through massive waste and abuse and corruption and absolute impunity. We need therefore to provide immediate relief to those who are oppressed, and embark on social and economic reforms that will restore normalcy and lead to prosperity for all,” he added.

The new President also thanked all those who voted for him and voted against him and added that if victory should have true meaning all should celebrate it in brotherhood sans any differences.

“As a Buddhist country while striving to uplift Buddhism, the government will also take steps to ensure the religious rights and freedom of all religions,” he added. “Ethnic and religious reconciliation will be our priority. We will strive to build a disciplined society rich in cultural and moral values where all could live in harmony irrespective of differences,” President Sirisena added.

He said the nearly 2.5 million migrant workers, the largest foreign revenue earners of the country, will be provided assistance.

The President said he will also take steps to develop agriculture and local industries and that he will use new innovations and modern technology to improve the two sectors.

“The Public and Police service will be made independent. They will not be subjected to any pressure or interference. The dignity of officers in the public sector will be restored and we will also take steps to develop the private sector and ensure the rights of workers in this sector,” he added.

The President stressed that he will also take steps to fully implement the 100 day programme on schedule.

Before addressing the Nation, the new President visited the Sri Dalada Maligawa and other religious places in the Kandy city and obtained blessings.

The Maha Sangha, leaders of political parties and a large gathering of the public were present at the simple but proud ceremony held at the Dalada Maligawa premises.

Courtesy:Daily News