Chairman of the National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) and former Speaker of Parliament, Karu Jayasuriya, has said that the catastrophic situation in the country, its rulers and the people were quences.

Addressing the NMSJ’s Kurunegala District Convention yesterday Jayasuriya said that the country was on the brink of disaster on many fronts, and the NMSJ did not intend to incite anti-government sentiments.

“Instead, our only objective is to foster national, religious and political unity in Sri Lanka and to save the country and its people from the great calamity we are facing today. It must be emphasised that the country will not be able to recover unless there is national unity and assure a consensus on national policies. The disastrous economic downturn and the spread of the Omicron variant have invariably become a threat to the lives of Sri Lankan people,” he said.

Given below are excerpts of the speech he gave at Kurunegala: “However, the National Movement for Social Justice is deeply disturbed by this situation. This is because, despite the catastrophic situation in the country, the country’s rulers and the people are yet to understand its many dire consequences.

“The North-Western Province is home to quite a significant Muslim and Tamil community. While they continue to live in harmony, however, we have observed attempts being made to spread hatred and disunity among these communities through various political influences.

“But it must be noted that the country is being severely harmed by these narrow objectives. The Easter Sunday attack has also deeply hurt the Catholic, Christian and Buddhist communities in Sri Lanka. This is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Even the judiciary has instructed the police to act impartially and complete investigations expeditiously. If such issues are publicised internationally, it will be very detrimental to the reputation of our country and the people.

“Today, we have chosen the North Western Province to present it as an example due to the exemplary unity displayed in the region. The people of the North-Western province are peaceful and intelligent. National and religious unity, as well as a national consensus, are essential for resolving the problems of the country. For this, we must cast aside all party affiliations and divisions. We must all band together to control this situation.

“Shortage of foreign currency, diesel, food items, LP gas, and milk powder are burning issues that must be addressed immediately. It also must be noted that if the country is forced to implement a restriction of electricity it will severely affect the daily lives of the people. It will also cause serious issues in the sectors of healthcare, water supply, manufacturing and national security.

“However, the government is yet to present a firm and lasting resolution to resolve these issues. Neither has a discussion been held between the government and the parties of the opposition. Instead of the petty debates between ministers, the government and the Finance Minister should take the lead in this instance. Resolving any issue after it has already occurred is no easy feat. This is the reality.

“The country needs a Constitution that is able to foster national unity. Every community must be able to live with respect and dignity. Therefore, I urge the President to keep his promise and not further delay the unveiling of a new Constitution, formulated with the agreement of the country’s people and esteemed Parliament.

“We must also once again earn the respect of the world as a country that safeguards democracy. We must earn the trust of investors. The 20th Amendment to the Constitution caused great damage and destruction to the country’s democracy, its principles and institutions. This must be rectified. Finally, we urge all of you who are present today to not allow for racial, religious or any other conflict to raise its ugly head once again in Sri Lanka!”