Defeat of heads of two ministries only a show of strength- Rahuman

By Dayarathna Abogama   

Anuradhapura District UNP parliamentarian Ishak Rahuman said the backbenchers of his party had proved their might in Parliament by being absent and thereby making it possible for the votes on two ministries to be defeated during the committee stage.   

He said this was done as a warning to the hierarchy of the party.   

He expressed his views while participating at a ceremony held to present colours to students who excelled in various fields for the year 2017-2018 and conferring official emblems to prefects of Sri Rahula Daham School in Palugaswewa, Habarana.   

“Our country is in this mess because we have not taught our children the Dhamma and have not nurtured them properly. The country has come to be known as a centre for the drug business. We have already been branded as a nation where the underworld reigns supreme.   

He said both the previous government and the present government are equally culpable for the present power cuts. Politicians shamefully try to hold officials responsible for the power crisis that was a fault of theirs.   

“We have all the resources necessary for the generation of electricity, but still we experience power cuts. We often speak of holding politicians responsible but no politician has been charged so far or punished. However, they are quick to find fault with government servants,” he said.   

He however expressed optimism and assured those present that the government would be able to provide a continuous power supply by the time the New Year is celebrated. This was in accordance with an assurance given by Power and Energy Minister Ravi Karunanayake.   

He also expressed hope of adequate funds being available for the development of rural areas through the budget. The MP asked the people not to read too much into the recent defeat of the several heads of two ministries, adding that they were confident of passing the budget with a majority of over 120 votes in parliament.