President urges public to back Mahinda
 

Ranil Wijayapala reporting from Ratnapura

President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga yesterday appealed to the public not to be misled by attempts by the UNP to portray that differences existed between herself and her Prime Minister and instead urged them to rally behind Mahinda Rajapakse to ensure his victory in order to carry forward the development programmes initiated under her leadership.

Addressing a public rally at the Ratnapura New Town esplanade President Kumaratunga noted that the pro-UNP media were attempting to create this difference between herself and the Premier who is now the Presidential candidate.

She told the mammoth crowd gathered to felicitate her and in support of Premier Rajapakse's candidature that she had given full freedom to her candidate to conduct his campaign.

She said it was unfortunate to note that the media supporting the UNP was trying to show there was friction between their relationship.The President outlined all the development programmes initiated under the PA and UPFA governments during the past 11 years except the two year regime of the UNP.

The President said her Government succeeded in improving education, health and other infrastructure facilities such as telecommunications and roads.

"We were able to do all this due to the trust placed in us considering our policies and programmes," the President added.

"I am confident that the people will keep the same faith in Mahinda to continue these development projects," she said.

She said the SLFP during its 58 year history fought for the democratic right of the people along with parties like the MEP.

"Those who talk about a free media today too exist due to our fight" The President declared that the SLFP was not a party that can be sold out leased or be destroyed."It is a political truism that we fought for the rights of the people," she added. President Kumaratunga also said that steps have been taken to lay the foundation stone for the construction of the Hambantota harbour as a joint venture between Sri Lanka and China.

In addition she also said that steps have been taken to construct a highway connecting the major cities of Colombo, Matara, Ampara, Batticaloa and Trincomalee. She said that since oil deposits have been found in Lankan territorial waters, steps will be taken to use this resource for the betterment of the country. "We need a honest and committed leader to undertake these tasks," she said.

Prime Minister and Presidential candidate Mahinda Rajapakse,party leaders supporting him also addressed the meeting.

President Kumaratunga was felicitated at this rally for her service to the country during the past 11 years.