Cooperate with President at April 8 polls

It is the duty of the public to extend their cooperation to President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the April 8 General Election and give a strong mandate to change the existing electoral system that has led to strong competition among candidates lined with hatred for one another, Most Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkhitha Maha Nayaka Thera of the Asgiriya Chapter said in a statement yesterday.

President Rajapaksa’s courageous leadership as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces led to the victory over the terrorist group that had plagued the country for three decades, the prelate said. The President was able to liberate the country in three years after assuming power with his skilled leadership. The people are able to live without fear today and work for the welfare of their children and families.

Therefore the Maha Sangha of the main chapters honoured the President with the title Vishva Keerthi Sri Thrisinhaladheeshvara, in recognition of his wisdom and courage as a true national leader, the Maha Nayake Thera’s statement said.

The present election seems to be causing a lot of problem and anxiety to the public causing damages to property, injuries and even killing of people. Therefore this system has to be changed and a strong Parliament elected to amend these harmful laws, the statement said.

”We believe the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa was the most capable among all political parties at present and urge the public to elect a strong Parliament that would be able to change these harmful laws and usher in hope and promise for the country so that the future generations especially the children would be able to live in peace and hope,” the Maha Nayaka Thera’s statement said.