I will implement programmes envisaged by my father - Sajith

If the people take the correct decision at the end of this year, I will implement all the programmes that were envisaged by my father, the former President Ranasinghe Premadasa, Housing, Construction and Cultural Affairs Minister Sajith Premadasa said yesterday.

Speaking at the function held to mark the inauguration of the renovation of the 167 year-old Darmasalawa of the Sri Sugathavanaramaya temple in Divulapitiya the minister said the country did not spend money on weapons after the end of the war in 2009, but those who boast about their love towards Buddhism did not use that money in the interest of Buddhism.

He said that he was not prepared to become President or Prime Minister using the religion as a ladder. "I am prepared to go home without doing so. Those who shout at the top of their voice claiming that Buddhism is in danger are tempting to get the credit for what others have done", he stated.

He said that some people who attempt to ridicule his plan to build 1,125 dagobas in temples issued liquor permits for their henchmen. (Pushpakumara Mallawaarachchi)