Those with qualifications have harmed the country: Minister Wimal Weerawansa

Colombo (News 1st): Over the last few days, the Viyathmaga Organization had indicated the intention of its members to contest the upcoming general election. On the 3rd of  February, Professor Channa Jayasumana of the Viyathmaga Movement noted that they require Basil Rajapaksa's intellectual mind to prepare the nomination list. He noted that they hope that educated and young leaders who were involved in the Viyathmaga movement's activities would be given an opportunity to contest the polls from all main districts. He went onto note that they are holding preliminary discussions in that regard. He stated that they believe that a new set of good people would enter Parliament this time. Meanwhile, State Minister Susil Premajayantha said that this is not the government's position. He said that although education is one aspect of being intellectual, no one has arrived at such a decision. He stressed that both educated and intelligent individuals are important. However, he stated that a group that has the experience and has represented all segments of the society are also required for Parliament. He noted that this is because the Parliament is a cross-section of democracy. UPFA MP  Sisira Jayakody also said this country demands good individuals who do not use their parliamentary positions to engage in businesses, more than intellectuals. Therefore, he noted that the requirement for good people is the trend in terms of politics. Commenting on the issue Minister Wimal Weerawansa noted that Ranil is a graduate of Colombo University but he is the number one individual behind the Central Bank bond scam, Ravi Karunanayake is an accountant and he is also a suspect in the bond scam. He said those with qualifications are the ones who have caused more harm to the country and those with fewer qualifications have done less damage to the country. He stressed that a person does not become an intellectual only through certificates. Leader of the Pivithuru Hela Urumaya Udaya Gammanpila noted that people in all spheres have the opportunity of contesting the election. He questioned; "doesn't the Viyath Maga movement have that right?" He stated that a person can be an actor, a professional, or a businessman, but one should know politics and become a politician. He added that they are happy to see people from different fields coming forward, however, no matter how talented they are in their respective sectors, they should study and engage in politics. He stressed that politics is a profession. He pointed out that a highly-skilled engineer cannot perform a caesarian section because they are in different fields. State Minister Vasudeva Nanayakkara also speaking regarding the matter said if the people vote for them they will be elected, accordingly, if they don't receive votes they will not be elected. He said while giving nominations, all parties should know as to whom the people like and if nominations are given to individuals whom the people dislike, then they will not be elected to Parliament. Making a statement General Secretary of the SLFP Dayasiri Jayasekara said;

"When politicians are rejected then people who are not involved in politics will be put forward. The people should then know to face the repercussions of such a move. However, I respect their engagement in politics. I would like it if they are put forward in the nomination lists."