Mahinda Chinthanaya guided to win Chilaw PS after 33 years

Christie Fernando, Chilaw special correspondent

CHILAW: The Chilaw residents voted for the People's Alliance (PA) after a 53 years of rule by the present opposition in the political arena, said newly elected Chilaw Urban Council Chairman Hilary Prasanna Fernando. I thank God for this welcome transition because a change in the administration will help make strides in development.

He was speaking after assuming duties at the Chilaw Urban Council auditorium.

Fernando said, we had to encounter manifold challenges. With the help of the Almighty, we couldn't be vanquished and the Alliance emerged victorious at the end. I had the implicit faith in God that we would eventually triumph with the overwhelming people's support.

We have a blueprint to improve the town by leaps and bounds in all spheres.

"I'll not forget the people's needs who reposed their faith and confidence in me. They have given me an opportunity to prove my mettle in every way and, in no time, development projects will be started to provide all amenities and facilities for residents in Chilaw town.

I won't criticise the previous administrations but we'll work hand in hand in effecting reforms and changes with the opposition support. "I'll initiate action to verify the income sources for the Chilaw UC, especially in monitoring the actual revenue obtained for the Council from the Chilaw fish market, the vegetable market and as well as the public transport services in Chilaw."

In this manner we'll have a mobile service to assess the ratepayers' requirements and listen to their grievances.

We'll also work in liaison with the Pradeshiya Sabha in the Chilaw Division in ameliorating their living standard, he said. Former Deputy Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Priyankara Jayaratne, Wayamba Local Government Commissioner Jayantha Wijeratne, Chilaw Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Janaka Pradeep Soysa, Puttalam District Youth Affairs Council Director Jinadasa Rajapakse, Chilaw Divisional Secretariat Planning Director Nimal Kurera and former UC Chairman and W. Hilary Fernando also spoke.