The Country needs a Political Culture that Prioritizes National Interests over Traditional Politics

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of a political culture that prioritizes the nation over traditional politics for the country’s advancement.

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He underscored that all political leaders, both in government and opposition, bear significant responsibility and must support initiatives to improve the national economy.

The President also emphasized that the responsibilities of all political leaders, from both the government and the opposition, are crucial and should not be underestimated. He underscored the importance of their unified support for the country’s economic upliftment program, free from political entanglements.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe made this statement during a recent meeting with a group of lawyers at the Presidential Secretariat.

The President emphasized that everyone has the right to engage in politics, but no one should undermine the economic framework essential for the country’s advancement. He highlighted that strikes, including those preceding the upcoming presidential election after the agreement with the International Monetary Fund was signed, were politically motivated.

“The political culture of our country has evolved over the past two years. A coalition was formed with the country’s interests in mind, operating outside traditional politics. As a result, we see individuals from various political affiliations, including those independent of any party, participating actively. The events of May 9, 2022, need no further elaboration. Due to widespread oppression, protests erupted among the public. Certain individuals sought to capitalize on these movements. As a result, traditional parties failed to regain leadership of the country.

In December 2021, I discussed a pressing issue in our country with the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, who urged me to convey this to the President for prompt action.