Senanayake reveals manifesto ; common law, reduced cabinet among key promises

Presidential candidate Mahesh Senanayake today (Oct 24) revealed his manifesto, giving prominence to a common law, and changing the country’s traditional political culture.

“Politicians should be brought under the law,” the former army chief told supporters in a speech limited to a few minutes, as he has been hospitalised for an illness.

The National People’s Movement (NPM) candidate drew parallels between corrupt politicians and terrorists, claiming that they had been the root cause for fuelling extremist activists in the country.

He reiterated that he is the only candidate who could establish a common law, as he does not belong to a political party, but a team of specialists from various fields.

“I will reduce the size of the cabinet to 20 immediately after coming into power,” Senanayake asserted pointing out that the people could evaluate their choice of voting him into power at that point.

Other key promises in his mandate, he said was to eradicate all differences in the society, ensure national security, create a stable economy and a decent political culture.

The presidential candidate did not provide any indication for a constitutional change in the country. He said that the President has sufficient powers under the present constitution, and that the problem lies with its implementation.

Accordingly, he said that he would appoint suitable “suitable, senior, and honest” secretaries to the ministries, in a bid to boost the country’s progress.

“At all times, our aim would be to establish an administrative system that is responsible to the country,” Senanayake said.

The candidate also pledged to strengthen the public service by providing employees adequate training, revamping the education system, improving public transport and uplifting the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

He also said that he would create an environment that would be encouraging for the youth, and secure for women to protect their dignity.

The launch of Senanayake's manifesto was held at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo.

(Pics by Amila Gamage)