President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, speaking at the swearing-in of the National People’s Power (NPP) Government’s new Cabinet at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (18), stressed the importance of wielding ministerial power responsibly. Highlighting the significance of the recent electoral victories, he emphasised the need for a collective effort to achieve national progress.
The President said the 21 Sept. presidential election and the subsequent parliamentary elections were indicative of transformation. For the first time, all Sri Lankans had united under a shared vision, he said. That victory, he said, represented the people’s rejection of division and corruption, reaffirming values of integrity and democracy.
Dissanayake stressed that the government must act as a unifying force, transcending traditional divides between victors and the defeated. He underscored the importance of maintaining stability and creating a new political culture that prioritises democracy and inclusivity. Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s history of political power, he warned against the corrupting potential of unchecked authority, insisting that power must always be exercised with accountability and purpose.
Acknowledging the public’s long standing struggles, the President highlighted the widespread oppression faced by everyone, from professional to vulnerable groups. This election, he said, symbolises the people’s desire for freedom from these
injustices and their demand for fair economic, professional, and cultural opportunities.
Dissanayake commended the contributions of Sri Lankans abroad, whose unprecedented engagement in the elections demonstrated their commitment to the nation’s progress. He also recognised the role of younger generations and social media in amplifying the aspirations of a new era.
Reflecting on the NPP’s decades-long struggle, he acknowledged the sacrifices made by many to achieve this victory. The President emphasised that while political slogans had driven the movement to this point, governance now required a shift in focus. The success of the government, he said, will be measured by the quality of governance, not ideology.
Dissanayake urged Cabinet Ministers to embrace their roles with integrity, understanding the responsibilities and limitations of their positions. He expressed confidence in their ability to inspire change and fulfil the people’s aspirations through good governance. Moving forward, he called on the Cabinet to focus on delivering tangible results, ensuring economic inclusion, and upholding democratic rights.
The President concluded by emphasising the collective responsibility of all citizens and leaders to build a more inclusive and prosperous Sri Lanka. He called on his Cabinet to remain committed to good governance, ensuring the success of this historic political journey.
