Namal tears into govt. in fiery parliament speech

Former SLPP National Organiser and Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa delivered a passionate speech in Parliament, criticizing the government for misleading the public with unfulfilled promises and failing to address the economic hardships faced by the people. After being transferred from remand custody, Rajapaksa expressed disappointment that the government had not delivered on its pledges to farmers and ensure a reasonable price for paddy, as they had imported 400,000 metric tonnes of rice instead.

He raised concerns over the severe impact of drought conditions, with water levels in 74 major reservoirs falling by a staggering 34 percent of their capacity. Villagers were struggling to obtain drinking water, with some having to wait up to 25 days for supplies. Rajapaksa also questioned the government's failure to fulfill promises made to those affected by Cyclone Ditwah, including the promised US$1 million in assistance to disaster-hit Nepal.

He called on the government to honor its commitments to the international community to avoid damaging Sri Lanka's reputation. The opposition leader criticized proposed tougher road-use regulations, emphasizing the need for the government to consider their practicality. In education, he accused the government of not honoring its pledge to establish 50 new universities, only laying the foundation stones for two-storey school buildings.

Rajapaksa also criticized the government's handling of the health sector, alleging they had failed to improve the doctor-patient ratio and were instead embroiled in disputes with the GMOA. He alleged that life-saving medicines were lacking in hospitals and claimed dengue cases had reached 100,000. Rajapaksa also criticized President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for advising people to drink coriander instead of seeking hospital treatment.

"How long are you going to run this country on lies? Keep in mind that empty lies will not solve the problems of the people," Rajapaksa warned.