Sajith releases manifesto ; vows to protect sovereignty of people, country

Presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa today (Oct 31) said he would protect the sovereignty of the people and the country under his rule.

He made these remarks after releasing his manifesto titled 'Sajith’s Social Revolution' at the Queen's Hotel in Kandy.

"Sri Lanka is a glorious country. It does not bow down to any powers," Premadasa said emphasizing that the country's identity will be protected in his foreign policy.

His manifesto was centred on three pillars namely establishing a strong country, creating a competitive economy, and also a just society.

The New Democratic Front (NDF) candidate pledged to eliminate terrorism and the drug menace, and also protect other religions while giving prominence to Buddhism.

A key promise outlined in his manifesto was to establish a Presidential Task Force on National Development, and to set-up its offices in each divisional secretariats.

Premadasa pledged to allocate 0.8 percent of the gross domestic production (GDP) for Research and Development activities in the country.

As a part of his health policy, the NDF candidate promised to ensure a 24-hour health service in the Outpatient Department (OPD)'s and also operate 'Suwa Seriya' ambulances as well.