Government takes decisions to benefit people and reduce ruler's privileges

The current administration took two types of decisions: one to benefit the public and the other to curtail the privileges of rulers, according to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The President made these remarks while addressing the May Day rally organised by the National People's Power in Nuwara Eliya under the theme "People's Power for the Republic".

Previous governments took decisions that increased the perks of rulers while causing distress and pain to the public, but the current situation is the exact opposite, the President further stated.

Addressing the gathering, the President noted that this is the first time a May Day rally is being held in the Nuwara Eliya district by the party, adding that those who previously held such rallies there are nowhere to be seen today.

He stated that the Malaiyaha people and all others in the district have signalled their trust in the National People's Power government.

This administration belongs to the people, is protected by them, and brings victory to them, he said, describing it as the strongest government with the highest level of public confidence in Sri Lanka.

The President highlighted that people from the North, East, South, and the Malaiyaha community all believe in this government, marking the first time a true people's and working-class administration exists in the country. Approaching its first year and a half in power, the government took many steps toward building a nation with better income, housing, education, law and order, and national unity.

In contrast to former governments that prioritised their own gains, the President claimed this administration focuses on cutting rulers' privileges and uplifting the lives of the working class.

He cited the decision to increase wages for the Malaiyaha people as evidence of being on their side.

Following the destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah to paddy fields, crops, livestock, and the livelihoods of farmers, fishers, and plantation workers, the government decided to grant the highest compensation for agricultural lands in Sri Lankan history.

Support was also extended to the fishing community for lost boats and equipment, along with significant relief for damaged plantation crops.

Furthermore, the government decided to provide a Rs. 5 million allowance for every house destroyed or deemed at risk, and a Rs. 500,000 compensation for minor damages.

Families whose children lost school books in the disaster are to receive Rs. 25,000.

Regarding the energy crisis, the President noted that while global conflict forced fuel and energy prices up beyond control, the government provides a Rs. 100 subsidy for every litre of diesel.

He stated that while a litre of diesel currently costs Rs. 382, it would be Rs. 482 without this intervention, concluding that such measures are taken because this is a people’s government.