Imprisoning Ranil, who can be useful to the country, is a national crime - Vajira

Speaking at a meeting held on the 14th in the Galle District, as part of a series of special meetings organized island-wide under the guidance of United National Party (UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe, UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena emphasized that the current rulers' attempt to imprison the former president, who rendered exceptional service to the country, instead of utilizing his expertise, is a weakness of their own.

The Chairman, who accused that a systematic program to weaken the opposition is being implemented through the intervention of the current main party mechanism, pointed out that the direct attacks aimed at Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe are a direct result of this. He also stated that it is extremely regrettable that some people have forgotten his dedication to the motherland as a national-level leader.

Recalling Mr. Wickremesinghe's past political and economic contributions, Mr. Vajira Abeywardena stated that he pioneered the establishment of investment and industrial zones in Biyagama, Seethawaka, Sapugaskanda, Bingiriya, Koggala, and Pallekele by introducing the 'Industrial Strategic Plan'. He further pointed out that providing relief to the hotel industry in 1991 and initiating the 'Info Lanka' exhibition also took place under his guidance.

Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe also led the effort to revive the national economy, which had completely collapsed to a negative value by 2001. The Chairman recalled that subsequently, his government was able to secure 45,000 million rupees for the 'Regaining Sri Lanka' program through the Tokyo Aid Conference held in 2003, and also ended the severe power cuts prevalent at the time, ensuring a continuous 24-hour electricity supply.

It was also stated that as Prime Minister during 2017-2018, he negotiated with the International Monetary Fund to create a primary budget surplus, and as President during 2022-2024, he took several equally decisive steps and worked to secure necessary assistance for the Light Rail Transit project. Mr. Abeywardena further stated that it was Mr. Wickremesinghe's experience and intelligent leadership that rescued the country from bankruptcy and restored uncertain public life during the dark and crisis-ridden era of 2022-2024, when people died in queues for fuel, gas, and medicine, and street clashes occurred. He also termed imprisoning Ranil, who can be beneficial to the country, a national crime. This meeting, attended by party activists, managers, and electorate organizers from the Galle District, will not be the last; all arrangements have been made to continue this series of meetings today and tomorrow, covering the entire district.