News
PM chief guest at YMMA’s 75th annual convention
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya participated in the 75th Annual Convention of the All Ceylon Young Men’s Muslim Association (YMMA) Conference held on Monday [ 20th October] at the Cinnamon Life Hotel, Colombo.
The YMMA, founded by the late Dr. A.M.A. Azeez, a distinguished civil servant and senator, was established on the belief that youth and community engagement can bring meaningful change. Over the years, this vision has been upheld. Incorporated by an Act of Parliament and recognised as a charitable organisation, the YMMA has become a pillar of social welfare and community development.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister stated:
“Through initiatives in education, youth development, disaster relief, empowerment of women and families in need, and community welfare, the YMMA has supported thousands of individuals and communities.
It is commendable that the YMMA has played an important role in supporting Muslim women through initiatives such as the Young Women’s Muslim Association (YWMA) ’Women Empowerment Project’ and the ’Back to School Programme.’ Such programmes are valuable not only for individual development but also for society as a whole.
Your annual recognition of members and branches reflects the dedication of those who have given their time, energy, and resources to serve others.
As we reflect on 75 years of service, we must also look ahead. Challenges facing youth today, including unemployment and social exclusion, require strong partnerships between the government, civil society, and organisations like the YMMA.
Evidence shows that boys have a higher dropout rate than girls, particularly after completing the G.C.E. Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations. This limits opportunities for young men to pursue higher education and vocational training. It is therefore essential to encourage and support boys to continue their education through guidance, mentorship, and accessible learning pathways.
I commend the YMMA’s ongoing commitment to developing responsible and capable young citizens. It is through these efforts that we can build a society grounded in equality, understanding, and shared opportunity.”
The event was attended by Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih, Member of Parliament M.A.L.M. Hizbullah, members of the YMMA, and other distinguished guests.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya yesterday sad that the Executive Presidency would be abolished, in line with the NPP’s election manifesto.
Speaking in Parliament, in response to a question raised under Standing Order 27/2 by Opposition and SJB Leader Sajith Premadasa, the Prime Minister said the abolition would take place through a proposed new Constitution.
She added that preliminary work on drafting the new Constitution had already begun, with previous committee reports and other proposals being studied to guide the process.
“A concept paper on the draft will be presented to the Cabinet,” Amarasuriya said, noting that a formal study has been initiated on abolishing the Executive Presidency.
She said that the move cannot be implemented without introducing a new Constitution.
Leader Sajith Premadasa told Parliament yesterday that the suspension of duties imposed on Dr. Rukshan Bellana, Deputy Director of the National Hospital, amounted to a violation of his fundamental rights.
Raising the issue during parliamentary proceedings, Premadasa, who is also the SJB Leader, questioned the decision to suspend the senior medical officer for issuing a statement to the media, particularly on matters relating to children’s medicines.
He said health was a fundamental right and noted that two children had reportedly died, stressing that the focus should be on accountability over the incident rather than penalising a medical professional for speaking out.
Premadasa criticised the authorities for suspending Dr. Bellana solely for communicating with the media, asking whether such action constituted justice for families who had lost their children.The Opposition Leader said silencing officials, who raise concerns, undermines fundamental rights and does not address the underlying issues related to patient safety and public health.
Acting Deputy Director of the Colombo National Hospital Dr. Rukshan Bellana has been suspended.
A letter, issued by the Ministry of Health, says preliminary investigations by the Ministry of Health has revealed that Dr. Bellana, as a government medical officer holding a responsible position, made statements to the media, without approval, in a manner that created a controversial situation in the country and unrest among the public.
The letter further stated that formal disciplinary action will be taken in due course regarding this matter.
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