• Notes that opportunism, lust for power, & authoritarianism have hindered progress 

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his inaugural address to the nation, noted that since achieving stability and confidence in the economy is crucial, the Government plans to immediately commence negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and proceed with activities related to the extended credit facility (Extended Fund Facility [EFF]) and negotiate with the relevant creditors to advance and expedite the debt restructuring programme and process to secure the necessary debt-related relief. 

Furthermore, he elaborated that we require a Parliament that accurately reflects the will of the people as the 16th Parliament, which he dissolved, did not.

Meanwhile, he added that with a view to launching a permanent programme to build a unified Sri Lankan nation that respects diversity, thereby completely ending the era of division based on race, religion, class, and caste, they have already taken significant steps to appoint efficient and honest officials to oversee these initiatives. 

He elaborated that they are implementing practical programmes to alleviate the heavy burdens faced by citizens.

Regarding education, he emphasised that every parent deserves the right to provide their child with access to quality schools and education, adding that towards this end, they are fully committed to securing the future of the next generation by ensuring excellent education for all children. 

Since a country's airport offers a first impression, reflecting its order, the behaviour of its people, their work ethic, and cultural practices, its cleanliness, how vehicles are driven, how the elderly are treated, how hospitality is shown, and even how animals are cared for, the Government has developed clear plans to enhance Sri Lanka's image in these areas, with short-term, medium-term, and long-term initiatives already underway.

Concerning the role of women, the country's majority, the Government, he added, is actively working to enhance women's representation across all institutions. 

“As a testament to our commitment, we have already appointed a woman as the Prime Minister (Dr. Harini Amarasuriya),” he said.

Noting that a significant portion of our population consists of individuals with disabilities who require special social protection, to support this group, the Government has proposed a robust social safety net and is implementing short-term measures to address their needs.

Further, the President added: “I understand that some may feel uncertain due to doubts about us, but I'm determined to earn your trust through my actions. I welcome your constructive criticism and encourage you to join us in building the future together. If we can set aside our differences, I believe that you will see that we share the same goals. Opportunism, the greed of power, and authoritarianism has hindered our country's progress. But now, we have our final opportunity which cannot be missed.”