Minister hails "Mahinda Chinthanaya"

Nimal Wijayatunga, Eheliyagoda special corr.

EHELIYAGODA: "The major reason for my decision to join the present government is that I was not been able to serve the voters according to my own principles. I believe President Mahinda Rajapaksa is a farsighted leader who will bring lasting peace for our troubled nation," said the Deputy Minister of Rural Economic Development, Susantha Punchinilame.

He was addressing Ratnapura district electronic and print media journalists soon after opening a new Ministerial office at Gangaaddara Road, Ratnapura.

The Deputy Minister opened the new office by cutting a ribbon after hoisting the national flag and unveiling the new office sign board.

"As the present government is marching towards prosperity of the nation, the correct-thinking citizens should assist the government to achieve that goal disregarding political and other differences," Susantha Punchinilame said. .

He revealed that as soon as he was sworn-in as the Deputy Minister, he could get Rs. 40 million for development projects. "Though the government have to conduct war related activities against LTTE terrorists, the country's development projects will not be paralysed. Earlier some selfish officials converted war to a 'money-earning method'. We must establish an honourable peace according to 'Mahinda Chinthana' and the brutality of LTTE must be eliminated", he concluded.

Ministerial Secretary, A.M.P.B. Polgolla said the President has advised the Minister to take measures to develop the village sector.