PM Harini rejects opposition s claims that emergency regulations threaten democracy

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has dismissed the opposition's claims that the emergency regulations are harming democracy, calling these accusations unfounded. She challenged the opposition to provide even one specific example of repression that has occurred in the last three months, according to her office. The Prime Minister made these comments today (06) in Parliament while addressing the concerns raised by the opposition about the emergency measures. During a discussion on rules for essential services, she stated that the government has not restricted anyone's democratic rights to criticize it or participate in protests. Instead of continually using the term "repression" as a vague idea, she urged them to share details of any individuals who have been unfairly arrested or oppressed under the emergency regulations in the past three months. The government and the President have faced significant criticism on social media and in newspapers, yet no actions have been taken to silence this opposition. She stressed that the emergency regulations are crucial for restoring normalcy in public life after the ongoing disaster and for rebuilding damaged infrastructure. This legal framework is vital to ensure that roads, schools, and essential services operate smoothly. The government might need to deploy the tri-forces to help rebuild transportation infrastructure, including railway lines, and repair damaged school buildings. These structures won't just be fixed but will be rebuilt using advanced methods to better withstand future disasters. This is a key reason for implementing emergency regulations. The President has set up a Special Task Force to manage disaster relief and rebuilding efforts. The government anticipates receiving its report this month, which will guide the country's recovery through organized short-, medium-, and long-term plans. Some individuals are still in relief camps, and authorities have been instructed to work on resettling them as soon as they can. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya also urged the opposition not to use the term "repression" for political purposes, but rather to support the ongoing efforts to aid those affected by the disaster.