Opposition scared of elections - President

Nimal WIJESINGHE - Anuradhapura Additional District Group Correspondent

President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited Anuradhapura, Saturday, to encourage SLFP stalwarts and activists engaged in party re- organisation activities. President Rajapaksa without confining himself to the Anuradhapura President's House joined the reorganizing campaigners by visiting the villagers of Padaviya Ratmalgahawewa, Mihintale etc.

President Rajapaksa told the gathering that some sections were stating that the party re- organisation drive was being carried out since the government was preparing for a general election.

He pointed our that the Opposition was instituting law suits for fear of elections and seeking court injunctions. “The Opposition should be in readiness to face elections at any time and are obliged to do so in the interest of the people and country.

The present attitude of the Opposition defeatist one,” the President said. “We made a promise to the nation to defeat terrorism and bring lasting peace. We kept that promise and have now dedicated ourselves to develop the country.

The nation today is progressing in all sectors and the people stand to benefit by this. The vast strides being made by the country has made some people very envious and jealous,” the President said.

External Affairs Minister G.L. Peiris, North Central Chief Minister Berty Premalal Dissanayake and a large gathering also attended a public rally at Mahindaramaya, Minintale.