Opposition's campaign built on illusory plank_ Dr. Amunugama

by Ananth PALAKIDNAR

Minister of Public Administration and Home Affairs Dr. Sarath Amunugama, commenting on the Opposition claims of abolishing the Executive Presidency, described the claims as illusory as it was not within Sarath Fonseka's competence without complying with constitutional requirements for reform or abolition of the Presidency. Therefore, the main plank of the Opposition's campaign was illusory, he said.

Dr. Amunugama was addressing a meeting of professionals presided over by Tissa Balalle, Governor of the Wayamba Province, in Kurunegala recently.

Dr. Amunugama said the contest was between two personalities _ one with 40 years' experience in politics and the other having started his political career only 40 days ago. He emphasised the importance of continuity at this time, so that the nation could reap the benefits of the major development programs which have been initiated during the last four years. Dr. Amunugama explained the gravity of the problems arising from a novice aspiring to the Presidency.

The crucial need at the Presidential Election on January 26 is to identify the skills and qualities which are required for leadership of the country at a time when massive development is possible after the eradication of terrorism, Prof. G. L. Peiris, Minister of Export Development and International Trade, addressing at the meeting, said.

Prof. Peiris described the complicity of the issues which had to be dealt with to achieve success in the military campaign to rid the country of terrorism. He laid stress on President Mahinda Rajapaksa's handling of relations with foreign countries to ensure active support from all quarters, and the success achieved in the difficult task of finding financial resources for the military operations during a period of recession, with far-reaching adverse consequences for the region.

Experience and a strong background in politics are essential requisites at this hour, he said.

Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary to the President, gave an account of the major development work which had been accomplished by President Rajapaksa during his first term.