Opposition accuses PM of misusing ‘reconciliation’

The Opposition today accused Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe of misusing the word ‘reconciliation’ to create a rift between the Sinhalese and Muslim communities.

Addressing a news briefing held at the Opposition Leader’s Office, MP Keheliya Rambukwella said the Prime Minister had also betrayed an entire nation.

“For the sake of a handful of votes and to get former Minister Rishard Bathiudeen cleared of allegations, Prime Minister Wickremesinghe betrayed an entire nation. The word 'reconciliation' has been entirely destroyed today. In the name of reconciliation, the PM has separated Muslim and Sinhalese communities by drawing a line between them. This was the result of condoning and backing the decision taken by all Muslim ministers to resign when only one minister was accused of aiding extremism,” he said.

The MP also criticised the Muslim ministers who resigned along with Minister Bathiudeen, saying the move sends a wrong message to the people.

"This gives the notion that no matter whatever the allegations levelled against one minister; the others would not hesitate to back him as long as he is one of theirs. This is abhorrent,” he said. (Lahiru Pothmulla)

Video by RM