'Any Election any time, we are ready'

BY ROHANA Mathes reporting from Anuradhapura

PRIME MINISTER Mahinda Rajapakse asserts that as a democratic party, they are ready for an election any time whether 2005 or 2006.

Addressing, the gathering at the 'Rajarata Aruna' trade exhibition in Anuradhapura yesterday, the Premier said that the presidential election date has become a very significant and topical issue today everywhere in the country. Many investors are baffled and disturbed by this.

Much time is lost and wasted in offices for arguing on the same. The media is also consistently highlighting it.

He argued that in this scenario, the time has come for the Elections Commissioner to boldly proclaim the election date, so that anybody opposing it could take it up in the Supreme Court if necessary.

Speaking further, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse said that on the concept that 'developing the village, develops the country' as a whole, he would strive to combine the rural entrepreneur both to the local and international markets, with the aid of new technology such as computers.

We have received the fullest assistance of President Kumaratunga, other relevant, Ministries and the private sector to forge ahead in these deliberations," he said.

Prime Minister pointed out that a few people should not control the economy of the country. The rural entrepreneur and youth should be strengthened. The culture and heritage should be protected amidst opposition.

Poverty and unemployment should be eradicated.

The Premier also pledged to arrange an all island fair in Kandy to coincide with the "Kandy Perahera', to attract the foreign buyers who would be in the country for the pageant.