• Pushes new Constitution, good governance, rule of law, ethnic unity, 25-member Cabinet sans State Mins.

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People's Power (NPP) unveiled its policy framework yesterday (26) with Party Leader and Presidential candidate, Opposition Parliamentarian Anura Kumara Dissanayake pledging to introduce a new Constitution and abolish the Executive Presidency if elected. 

The event of launching the NPP’s Presidential Election manifesto, was titled ‘A Thriving Nation, A Beautiful Life.’

Speaking at the event, Dissanayake emphasised that the current system of governance in Sri Lanka has collapsed and that hence, the NPP’s manifesto aims to restore the country’s broken system. 

“Our goal is to establish a new Constitution that will replace the existing flawed structure, and to abolish the Executive Presidency, which has concentrated too much power in the hands of one individual,” he stated. 

He further elaborated that the NPP’s vision is to create a prosperous and contented nation by promoting good governance and upholding the rule of law. 

“The rule of law must be restored, and confidence in the legal system needs to be re-established. Without this, Sri Lanka cannot become a developed country,” he added. 

He also highlighted the need for ethnic unity, stressing that it should be promoted through practical political actions rather than mere rhetoric. “Politics centred around individuals must come to an end. We need to adopt a political culture that prioritises the collective good and fosters national unity,” he said. 

In a bid to streamline Government operations, Dissanayake announced that an NPP-led government would limit the number of Cabinet Ministries to 25. He also proposed replacing the current system of State Ministers with Deputy Ministers, thereby reducing the layers of governance and enhancing efficiency. He also outlined his Party’s vision for the foreign policy, stating that the NPP would adopt a strategy of maintaining friendly relations with all countries. 

“We will pursue a strong foreign policy that ensures that Sri Lanka is on good terms with all nations, while protecting our sovereignty,” he noted.

He also pledged to overhaul the current education system to ensure that every child in the country receives a proper education. “A restructured education system is vital for the future of our children and the development of our nation,” he asserted. Furthermore, Dissanayake condemned all forms of discrimination, promising that an NPP Government would be committed to protecting the rights of all citizens while working to strengthen the economy. 

“We will take full responsibility for the well-being of our people, ensuring that no one is left behind as we work towards economic prosperity,” he concluded.

Addressing the event, NPP Parliamentarian Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that although several parties present their manifestos, they act completely against them following their election to high office.