Parties with vested interests inciting people - Yapa

Nadira Gunatilleke

Certain elements are trying to create unrest in the country using non - existent 'issues'. They are trying to incite people into violence.

These elements are acting according to private and foreign agendas. The government will not let these elements create anarchy situation in Sri Lanka, Environment Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said.

Minister Yapa said that there are certain local and foreign elements who are jealous of Sri Lanka and the government for eradicating terrorism, achieving peace and developing the country. "These elements are trying their best to realize the Diaspora's objectives.

Certain political parties are also trying to test their capabilities and checking if they are popular among the people, by organizing protests," he said. Minister Yapa pointed out that the main objective of all these elements is creating an anarchic situation.

"The government believes in solving problems through discussion.

This was so in the past and this will be the procedure in the future as well. An NGO which instigated the fishermen in Chilaw is responsible for the disaster in Chilaw.

Fishing takes place all over Sri Lanka, but only the fishermen in Chilaw took to the streets against the fuel price hike," the minister said.

Minister Yapa said the government is doing much for public welfare. "The public should be aware of evil elements and should not be misled by their efforts.

The public should be far- sighted. All citizens must participate in the development drive," he said.