Kandy MC election:

Facelift for Kandy city

by L.S. Ananda WEDAARACHCHI

Kandy will be developed into a beautiful city under the UPFA. Kandy MC – UPFA candidate Mahindra Ratwatte said.

There is significant development in all sectors of the economy under the UPFA government. Kandy city which was under UNP administration for the last 58 years is still in the same old mould. It needs urgent change, he said, in an interview with the Sunday Observer. Excerpts of the interview:

Q: What made you to take to politics at the cost of your prestigious career in the private sector?

A: We grew up in a political background. My father Anuruddha Ratwatte was a former minister. His was a busy schedule attending to the needs of neighbours, those who sought his assistance and party members. My brother also took to politics. He is at present the Kandy District Parliamentarian. My father is the national organiser of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). I too decided to join them to serve the country. On the other hands I could not also turn down the request made by the SLFP and well- wishers to take to politics.

Q: Kandy city is a world heritage city. It could be developed into a beautiful city. It is lagging way behind any other modern city. There is no tangible improvement in health facilities or infrastructure development in the last couple of years. Your comments.

A: Yes, I agree. During the last 58 years under the UNP regime Kandy Municipal Council has not undergone any significant change.

The inefficiency of UNP administration in the Municipal Council was the main reason for the present plight.The central government has a massive development plan for Kandy District. What is advisable for the CMC is to work in unions with the central government and make the Kandy development plan a reality. The Opposition UNP has failed.

Q: Local government councils have a responsibility to maintain high environmental and heritage standard in cities. What have you got to say about this with reference to the Kandy MC?

A: Foreign and local tourists do not miss to pay a visit to Kandy. Environmental and health sectors should be updated to conform to higher standards.

Garbage has to be cleared twice a day as against the present practice.

Pavements, Pedestration crossings and drainage lines are not properly maintained in the city.

These have to be attended to immediately.

Q: What are your education credentials and details about your family?

A: I had my primary education at S. Thomas’s College, Colombo Later I joined Trinity College. I worked at the Stasson Group, Colombo as an executive and later joined another two leading private sector companies. I have functioned as a Director. I am married and have a son and a daughter.