For country’s development:

Intellectuals vital in legislature - Ven. Mahanayaka Theras

by L. S. Ananda WEDAARACHCHI

Appointing intellectuals who have gained expertise in administrative and diplomatic fields to hold responsible positions in the legislature is vital in the interests of future development of the country said the Most Ven. Tibbotuwave Sri Sumangala Mahanayaka Thera of the Malwatta Chapter and the Most Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Mahanayaka Thera of the Asgiriya Chapter. This was made known by the Ven. Nayaka Theras when Public Administration and Home Affairs Minister and Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama called on the Ven. Nayaka Theras at the Sri Dalada Maligawa on New Year’s eve. The prelates said that Parliament is the supreme legislature of the country. It manages the national budget to ensure the sound implementation of government policy.

The most Ven. Tibbotuwave Sri Sumangala Mahanayaka Thera said that Dr. Sarath Amunugama is considered one of the best intellectuals produced by the Peradeniya University. Dr. Amunugama held high positions in the former Ceylon Civil Service such as Government Agent and Secretary to important ministries.

He was also the Secretary General to the Paris based UNESCO. As Finance Minister and Entrepreneur Development Minister Dr. Amunugama negotiated large scale foreign aid and grants for the country.

The Most Ven. Udugama Buddharakkitha Mahanayaka Thera said that the Kandy city water supply scheme built at a cost of over Rs. 5,000 million and commissioned recently fulfilled a long-felt need of the city tolk.

This itself bears testimony to Dr. Amunugama’s sensitivity to public needs and the people friendly policies, he said.

Dr. Amunugama who represents Sri Lanka at international conferences and bilateral negotiations brought much reputation to the country.

As a politician and leader of the UPFA Kandy district, Dr. Amunugama said he had always maintained a high standard to tackle problems and worked for the country’s prosperity. Shedding all sectarian differences we should get together and work hard to achieve the supreme goals set out in the Mahinda Chintana Idiri Dakma Dr. Amunugama said.