MR explains reason to form SLPP; calls for a common policy framework in order for the country to move forward

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa has said that he along with his loyalists did not leave the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) but instead assumed the role of opposition when the SLFP formed a government with the United National Party (UNP).

"Politicans of the likes of S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike and D.A. Rajapaksa founded the SLFP after leaving the UNP. Therefore there were no dealings between both these parties," the Opposition Leader said speaking at an event in Tangalle at Carlton House yesterday (Apr 11).

He explained that the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) was formed since the SLFP joined hands with the UNP. "We did not receive votes at the previous general election to form a government with the UNP," he pointed out.

Mr. Rajapaksa also recalled that he had urged the Prime Minister to continue with the development projects since it would affect the country's economy,

"Over the last two years, the present government studied the projects which had commenced during our government. They then replaced the nameboards with new ones with their names upon completion of these projects," the former President charged.

He observed that projects such as the Beliatta railtrack, the Kandy Expressway, and the Ratnapura Expressway have either been delayed or stalled. Mr. Rajapaksa also added that the Hambantota Port has now been sold to another country while moves are afoot to sell the Mattala airport.

"The government is managing to provide electiricity only because we constructed the Norochcholai, Kerawalapitiya, and the Higher Kotmale power stations. The Sampur Power Station which was another project of ours was stopped," he claimed adding that the government is planning to earn commission by purchasing power from Independent Power Producers.

Opposition Leader Rajapaksa insisted that there must be a code of ethics, and a national policy in the country. On the same lines, he noted that the government changes its minds as per its own whims and fancies.

"A country cannot move forward in the backdrop of a situation like this. There should be a common policy framework," he said.