No chance for Opposition without real change: Harini

The people of this country will not give the Opposition a chance unless they change their practices, philosophy and behaviour even if they form independent groups and contest under different symbols, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said.

 

Addressing public meetings in Kalapaluwawa, Pothuarawa, Akuregoda and Boralugoda, she noted that the country is set to face an election for the third time in six months.

 

"This is an opportunity for us to strengthen the village leadership and build a structure suited for the village, as we work to establish the system necessary to implement the government’s programmes," she said.

 

"In 2024, traditional parties were unable to defend the corrupt, wasteful political culture that the people have already rejected. As a result, many are now coming forward as so-called independent groups. But it’s the same old faces," she said. 

 

"It’s like putting old wine in new bottles with new labels. Now they’re trying to rebrand themselves with new names and symbols," she added.

 

She remarked that the Opposition is struggling because its future is at stake. 

 

"A question of survival has arisen for them, and that’s why they are scrambling to reach mutual agreements to defeat the compass," she added, referring to the government’s electoral symbol.

 

"The Opposition still hasn’t realized that people have rejected their corrupt camp. That’s why individuals like Pillayan are now being elevated as national heroes. If the Opposition hasn’t learned its lesson yet, it will be taught one on the 6th."

 

"We need an Opposition but if we are to build one, it must first be taught a proper lesson. Only then will it understand that it cannot win through the same failed ways. We are confident that the people of this country will not give them a chance unless they change their practices, philosophy and behaviour," the Prime Minister said.