Carry out investigations, but don’t turn them political – Namal

Colombo, June 9 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna National Organizer and Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa said that investigations into matters relating to national security and the Easter attacks must be conducted properly, but should not be politicized for political advantage.

Speaking during a parliamentary debate, Namal questioned why none of the speakers who addressed the House had referred to the fact that the father of a suicide bomber had allegedly been included in the JVP national list, or that a lawyer who appeared on behalf of a suicide bomber had openly campaigned for the ruling party during elections.

“We are asking for proper investigations to be carried out. But these matters must not be turned into political theatre,” he said.

Namal also responded to accusations made against the opposition, stating that those now speaking about “economic assassins” should first read and understand the relevant court rulings before making political claims. He argued that the country continues to face severe economic hardship under the current administration, with poverty levels having sharply increased according to official statistics.

Quoting data from the Department of Census and Statistics, he said poverty levels had risen to between 25% and 35%, compared to 6.7% during the 2012–2013 period. He stated that ordinary people are struggling under heavy taxation, rising living costs, electricity bills, and increasing debt, forcing many families to pawn jewellery and personal belongings simply to survive.

Namal further claimed that farmers are facing fertilizer shortages and rising cultivation costs, while fishermen are unable to cover operational expenses due to high fuel prices. At the same time, he accused the government of prioritizing imports over protecting local producers.

He also criticized the government for failing to fulfill promises made to graduates and students, and highlighted the continuing difficulties faced by victims affected by the “Ditwah” disaster, noting that thousands remain displaced months later without permanent housing or adequate compensation.

Referring to international assistance received for disaster recovery, including Indian financial support, Rajapaksa questioned the progress and transparency surrounding the utilization of those funds.

On the issue of anti-terror laws, Rajapaksa accused the government of applying double standards. He alleged that while a young man from Kilinochchi had reportedly been detained under anti-terror legislation over a rap song referencing the LTTE, members of the ruling party had previously used and shared songs promoting similar themes during election campaigns in the North.

He also commented on the ongoing investigations involving Major General (Retd.) Suresh Sallay, stating that the opposition does not object to investigations being conducted, but warned against using such inquiries as political tools.

“We will always stand by the war heroes of this country. Investigations must be fair and independent, not politically manipulated,” he said.

Rajapaksa concluded by emphasizing that politicizing sensitive national security issues ultimately harms the public and the victims seeking justice.

“We urge the government once again, conduct investigations properly, but do not politicize them,” he said.