Ranil trying to sully Lanka's image - Governor

Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe is trying to sully Sri Lanka's image in the international arena and block the flow of foreign aid to the country.

Such action will only impede development and cause hardships to the people, said Uva Governor Nanda Mathew.

He was addressing southern voters during a tour of Kanumuldeniya, Nathuwala, Daluwakgoda, Pokunahena and Koholana in the Beliatte and Mulkirigala electorates on September 24.

Mathew said Sri Lanka had now been united and brought under a single flag by a Southern leader. This is the first time such a feat had been accomplished after King Dutugemunu.

"Today the people could once again taste freedom and travel anywhere in the country without fear and suspicion. Southern voters should try to protect this freedom by ensuring a UPFA victory at the forthcoming elections.

Mathew said the unemployment problem of southern youth would be solved to a great extent with the completion of the ongoing mega development projects including the Hambantota port and the airport.

He had identified several problems confronted by people in areas he toured which he would bring to the notice of the President for redress.