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An object of curiosity
Thousands of people flocked into the Parliamentary Complex compound the day after Vesak when the legislature's gates were open to the public.

Opening the complex to the public was the brainchild of the newly elected Speaker W.J.M. Lokubandara and it being a rare occasion many of the curious visitors were eager to see the place, which they had heard of so much about lately.

They were keen to see the inside of the building as well which was of course not possible. Many were seen peeping through the glass panels on the ground floor of the building. With all the antics that are being played out in the Chambers of Parliament, it is no wonder that the place has got the better of the people's curiosity. Fortunately things were more serene that day at the House by the Diyawanna despite the large numbers present there.

May generosity of Govt continue!
Another well-guarded place that was open to the public for Vesak was Temple Trees, the Prime Minister's official residence in Colombo. A massive dansala was held in the premises with large numbers flocking there as well.

Many of them got to see the new Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse and even shake his hand after which they left with their bellies full. Many were hoping the government's generosities would continue in the months ahead as well.

Need to get used
The day after the dansala was held, the only man in pain was the Prime Minister. After shaking so many hands, his fingers were benumbed. It took him one whole day to recover. But given the delegations and well-wishers that are visiting him since his new appointment, he will need to get used to all the hand clasping.

Post a sinecure?
Mr. Rajapakse has another problem. He has discovered that the man holding the job of the Prime Minister under the present Constitution is without very much to do.

Hence he took up the issue with an official at the Presidential Secretariat only to be reminded that he had the subject of Highways also under him." You have given me 11,000 square kilometres of road and I will look after it," replied an irate Mr. Rajapakse.

The famous comments made by former President Ranasinghe Premadasa while holding the post of Prime Minister that he was nothing more than a "glorified peon" while serving in that post is beginning to ring more true now.

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