All are equal before law :

No subjugation of judiciary - President

by Rasika SOMARATHNA in Kaduwela

President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday emphatically stated that he strongly believes in democracy and the principle of equality before law and stressed that as the head of the state he was committed to protect both.

“All are equal before law and are entitled to, without any discrimination, equal protection of the law”, he added.

The President said so addressing a massive public rally at Buddhadasa ground in Battaramulla (Kaduwela electorate) held in support of Colombo district candidates contesting the General Elections under the UPFA banner.

The President further noted that he would never subjugate the supremacy of the judiciary even though he had special privileges under the present constitution.

On the same note the President added that, however, he would always stand steadfast in the face of decisions which may go against public interest and might take necessary steps to rectify the matter.

The President was of the opinion that since conquering terrorism, today Sri Lanka had emerged as a nation where all communities can live together, enjoying their rights equally.

He reminded the gathering that however, in the not too distant past there had been an era where law and order was subjugated due to political interference.

The President said he too had been a victim of such atrocities in the past and added that he and his family might have once again bear the brunt if the Opposition had triumphed during last Presidential elections. However, we would never resort to such tactics even against his enemies, he added. Commenting on the challenges faced by the country in its quest to defeat terrorism, the President said certain organised sections had been trying to tarnish the county’s image for a long time and added that the Government had to remind them in no uncertain terms where they had belonged.

In addition to explaining the development plans ahead for the area the President said that Kaduwela electorate would be the main urban city in the Colombo outskirts, as a result of the new circular road which was coming up and other activities in the pipeline. He said that his government had been able to equally provide the benefits of development to the public in both urban areas and rural areas.

The President requested the public to join hands and support to form a strong UPFA government which would be an investment for the future generations.

Several candidates contesting the Colombo district under UPFA banner too addressed the gathering including UPFA General Secretary Minister Susil Premajayantha.