Muslims worst affected by terrorism -Minister

LTTE terrorists attacked Muslim community and no any other community than Muslim in the Eastern and Northern Provinces was attacked during the last three decades said Healthcare and Nutrition Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva.

The Minister said so at a mass rally held at the Al-Adhan Muslim Vidyalaya, Badulla, recently. The Health Deputy Minister Vadivel Suresh and several Provincial Council members also participated.

The Health Minister said President Mahinda Rajapaksa is the most friendly leader for Muslim Community. He is the most popular character not only in Sri Lanka, but also Muslim community of the world. He always appeared for the rights of the Muslim Community in Iran, Iraq and Palestine also. But, Presidential candidate Fonseka said Muslims were not Sri Lankans.

They had come here for trade activities. They don't have any right or heritage in the country.

It is clear hundreds of years ago Muslim people lived with other communities in Sri Lanka. They have rights and heritage in the country.

Muslim leaders who are supporting UNP and JVP alliance must understand the President has established peace in the country to live without fear. Thousands of Muslims were assassinated by the LTTE. Even when they were praying in mosques in Palliyagodella, Kaththankudi and several places, LTTE terrorists killed them.

Most of Muslim leaders are working together with the President. They have confidence on the Government. Now the people can go to the Eastern and North Province. A9 route is open for civilians. At least over 2,500 passenger vehicles have been to the North last week. Southern people are living peacefully with Northern people. This situation is essential to build up harmony with each other.

During the last four years, the Government has launched development programs to upgrade the lives of eastern people. Nagenahira Udanaya, Gama Neguma, Maga Neguma, Uthuru Wasanthaya are some of the development projects. The government has given priority for uplift the lives of Northern people. Over Rs. 100 billion are spent to develop Roads, Bridges, Water Facilities, Upgrading the Hospitals, Rural electricity projects etc.

The people have understood who the real leader with clear vision and policy is. The people pledge their support to the President to achieve a resounding victory in the Presidential Election.