Accountability and Efficiency in State Services - AKD

COLOMBO (News 1st); President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that he has a responsibility to uphold the aspirations of the people. 

Speaking at a progress review meeting of the Ministry of Power and Energy, the President stated that he expects the support of officials to fulfill these public expectations.

“Our country has a perception that more money leads to more corruption. However, we must all understand the significance of the mandate given by the people in the recent presidential election. The citizens have chosen a new team, and this decision is a determined one, not a routine political power shift. It reflects a significant and deliberate choice by the people to entrust power to a new group. Therefore, we have a responsibility to uphold and protect the aspirations embedded in this mandate,” stated President Dissanayake.

He emphasized that the public’s decision was influenced by various factors, primarily their dissatisfaction with state services. “We have a duty to create a state service that efficiently meets the needs of the citizens. This sector frequently interacts with the public, making it crucial for you to establish an environment that allows you to perform your duties effectively and without causing difficulties for the people,” he said.

President Dissanayake also stressed the importance of prudent financial management. “We must treat every cent of public money with the same care as we would sacred property. We have no right to waste or misuse public funds. This principle is part of our mandate. All of us, including myself, are accountable to the people. Therefore, I urge you to set aside past actions and accusations. We will address those separately. From now on, I need your support to fulfill this mandate,” he added.

He called for a new political culture that holds politicians accountable to the people and aligns with the promises made during elections. “The era of deceiving the public during elections and then reverting to old political practices must end. We need to establish a political culture that holds us accountable to the people,” he asserted.

The President stressed on the significant responsibility placed on public officials to uphold the integrity of the mandate and meet the expectations of the people. “We seek your support in this endeavor. We will stand by you in all your rightful actions within your official duties. However, if any misconduct occurs, we will not hesitate to take necessary actions,” he warned.