Ranjan Jayalal should apologize publicly - Sunil Handunnetti

Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunnetti, emphasizes that indirectly or directly requesting festive gifts, hampers, and presents similar to those given during previous government eras is clearly a demand for a bribe, and that he completely condemns the controversial statement made by Kaduwela Mayor Ranjan Jayalal.

The Minister made this statement yesterday (11) while participating in the 'Ilakkaya' political program on Sirasa TV. He strongly asserted that regardless of the mayor's mindset when making the statement, the error committed through a public medium must be immediately corrected before the media, and an apology must be offered to the public.

Mr. Handunnetti, pointing out that such actions are absolutely not condoned, stated that the relevant statement is completely unacceptable to any member, supporter, or the government of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) or the National People's Power (NPP). Accordingly, the Minister confirmed that the party would definitely take disciplinary action against him regarding the statement. He also stated that the rule of law must first apply to himself, and that he must first act to uphold the relevant legal and party discipline for himself.

He recalled that the people, enduring tear gas and baton charges, and even sacrificing their lives during the 2022 public struggle, brought the current government to power with the aim of eradicating fraud, corruption, and bribery. Mr. Handunnetti further emphasized that at a time when educated individuals like Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya have set aside their professorial salaries and privileges to dedicate themselves to the country, no one will be allowed to act by requesting gifts or privileges.

He pointed out that a public mandate does not mean enjoying facilities by being above the people. The Minister stated that although individuals might degenerate with the acquisition of power, as an organized political movement, they would not allow it. Recalling that the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna has unhesitatingly expelled even powerful figures who succumbed to such degeneration throughout history, he warned that this strict party discipline remains unwavering and active even today.
Ranjan's controversial 'eating and drinking' story below