March 01, Colombo (LNW): In a strong and resolute statement delivered in Parliament yesterday (28), President Anura Kumara Dissanayake affirmed that the current government would not tolerate the resurgence of terrorism or racism in Sri Lanka.

The President made these remarks during a debate on the Defence Ministry’s expenditure head, as he warned politicians that attempts to overthrow the government through conspiracies or racial divides would no longer be permitted.

Addressing the gathering, President Dissanayake expressed his determination to ensure that the nation remains steadfast in its commitment to peace and unity, whilst also issuing a firm warning to those seeking to destabilise the government.

“The era of changing governments through conspiracies and racism is now over,” he declared, making it clear that any efforts to exploit these tactics would be futile.

In his address, the President also took the opportunity to highlight Sri Lanka’s economic recovery. He reassured Parliament that the country’s economy is stabilising and that they expect the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to approve the third review of Sri Lanka’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), which would pave the way for the disbursement of the fourth tranche of funding. The report on this review was presented to the IMF’s Executive Board on the same day.

President Dissanayake expressed confidence that the successful completion of the third review would bring positive results, marking another significant step in the nation’s economic recovery. He emphasised that Sri Lanka’s economy is headed towards a robust and resilient future, with greater stability in the coming years.

In terms of national security and legal reform, the President revealed that his administration is working towards repealing the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

He confirmed that a committee had been appointed to draft a new legal framework to replace the PTA, signalling the government’s commitment to ensuring human rights whilst addressing security concerns.

The President also outlined his plans for restructuring the armed forces, stating that by 2030, the personnel of the Sri Lanka Army would be reduced to 100,000, the Navy to 40,000, and the Air Force to 18,000.

This move, according to Dissanayake, aims to transform the military into a more professional force that will serve the nation and not individual interests.

Turning his attention to the opposition, President Dissanayake issued a stern warning to those who might seek to undermine the government through political instability or economic crises.

He reflected on past instances in Sri Lanka’s history where governments had fallen due to internal divisions or external pressures, but emphasised that his administration is prepared to withstand such challenges.

“If you think you can overthrow this government through an economic crisis, that is a mere dream,” he asserted. “Attempts to destabilise the government through internal party conflicts or public protests will also fail. We are not a government that will fall for such tactics.”

He also dismissed any attempts to create crises within the ruling party, insisting that this government was united and resolute in its commitment to national progress.

He called on all political factions to respect the democratic process and work together for the stability and prosperity of the nation, warning that any attempts to disrupt the current order would be firmly resisted.

In concluding his statement, President Dissanayake reiterated his commitment to securing a stable future for Sri Lanka, one free from terrorism, racism, and political manipulation.