The newly appointed Deputy Minister of Minor Export Crop Promotion, Nishantha Muthuhettigama said he had been given a ministry so that he could work for the people, and that he intended to work hard towards the betterment of his ministry.

“I believe that I can work hand in hand with Minister Reginald Cooray and small crop organisations to promote minor export crop production,” he said.

The minister said the appointment of nine new deputy ministers was not a burden on the country and that  it has strengthened the government.

He said that although the United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA) was filled with members there was always ample room for crossovers.  

“There are more to come from the opposition parties. President Mahinda Rajapaksa will make the decision about  them,” he said.

He said the UPFA government would rule the country for another two or three terms and that President Rajapaksa should remain in power for at least another two terms.

The minister also said the UPFA would win the upcoming Southern Provincial Council election.

“We don’t have any competition at the upcoming elections.  The opposition United National Party (UNP) showed us what it is capable of in Matara clash,” he said. (Indika Sri Aravinda, Lahiru Pothmulla)

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