The Inaugural Address of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to the Nation

I express my deepest gratitude to all the people of this country who have heard our voices throughout the years and have brought our proposed programs to life.
We believe that the victory you have bestowed upon us will be even stronger if it brings happiness to those who may not have shared our vision. Therefore, I would like to dedicate this triumph to all the citizens of our nation.

We pay tribute to the brave men and women of previous generations who made sacrifices, some even with their lives, for this triumph. I view this victory and the prosperous nation we aim to construct as a tribute to their legacy.

We believe that all individuals, including those who supported us despite slander, falsehoods, and misinformation, and voted for our political movement with great determination, have the capacity to bear the responsibility of building this nation together.

We can fulfill this role as a unified team, supported by a dedicated team committed to this mission. Our resolve is unwavering.

The transformation we seek involves various steps that will take time. However, establishing stability and confidence in the current economy is essential. We intend to commence negotiations with the International Monetary Fund promptly and proceed with activities related to the extended credit facility. Furthermore, to advance our debt restructuring program, we are in discussions with relevant creditors to expedite the process and secure necessary debt relief. We are confident that with the support of both the people of this country and the international community, we can achieve success.

A key principle that resonates with the public is our commitment to making a “difference.” One of the primary changes citizens anticipate is the eradication of negative traits in our political culture. Our track record thus far upholds this commitment. Notably, we succeeded in ensuring that the presidential election was the first in Sri Lanka without reports of post-election violence, reflecting the trust the people have placed in us. Our goal is to affirm and stabilize this positive situation.

At this juncture, I emphasize the importance of engaging in politics with a collective focus on nation-building. We are dedicated to providing that leadership.
Regardless of whether one identifies as Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, or Malay, our nation cannot prosper until we create an environment where everyone can proudly say, “We are Sri Lankan citizens.” We are prepared to implement the necessary constitutional, economic, and political reforms without hesitation.

We are launching a lasting program to foster a unified Sri Lankan nation that embraces diversity, putting an end to the era of division based on race, religion, class, and caste.
We have already taken significant strides in appointing efficient and honest officials to oversee these initiatives. We are making steady progress towards the desired changes, ensuring that public service remains intact and citizens are not negatively impacted.

We are committed to establishing a law-abiding nation and nurturing a disciplined society while ensuring the social security of all citizens. This reinstates the principle that everyone is equal before the law.

We believe that public service plays a pivotal role in nation-building. To this end, we will create a public service that instills pride in the community and aligns with the government’s objectives. Our commitment is to establish an efficient, honest, and people-centric public service.

Our objective is to enhance the standard of living for the people of this country. We are implementing practical programs to alleviate the burdens faced by our citizens.
No parent in this country should fret about their child’s future. Every parent deserves the opportunity to provide their child with access to quality education and schools. We are fully dedicated to securing the future of the next generation by ensuring superior education for all children. By nurturing knowledge, attitudes, and skills, we are nurturing a promising future for the youth of our country.

When we visit a country, the airport often forms the first impression, reflecting its order, the conduct of its people, their work ethic, and cultural practices.

It also showcases the country’s cleanliness, driving practices, treatment of the elderly, hospitality, and even animal care. We have outlined clear plans to enhance Sri Lanka’s image in these areas, with short-term, medium-term, and long-term initiatives already in progress.

Our aim is to create a nation where the world holds our passport in high regard, and where every citizen can proudly declare, “I am a Sri Lankan.” We aspire to construct a country where citizenship is a source of pride for all. Achieving this vision will necessitate the collective effort of every citizen.

We are dedicated to establishing a system that upholds social justice for all, and we will do so with the utmost sense of responsibility.

We are shaping a secure future for our children and youth through a program that promotes knowledge, skills, education, and entrepreneurship.

The women in our community, constituting over 52% of our population, play a crucial role in both the economy and social fabric of our country. We are actively working to enhance women’s representation across all institutions. As a testament to our commitment, we have already appointed a woman as Prime Minister.

A significant portion of our population comprises individuals with disabilities who require special social protection. To support this group, we have put forth a robust social safety net and are implementing short-term measures to address their needs.

We ensure that no segment of our society is overlooked on our path forward. By respecting each other’s identities and leveraging them positively for the progress of the country, we contribute collectively.

We firmly believe in the sovereignty of the people and are devoted to safeguarding their democratic rights.

I acknowledge that some may harbor doubts about us due to uncertainties, but I am determined to earn your trust through my actions. I welcome your constructive criticism and invite you to join us in shaping the future together. If we can set aside our differences, I am confident you will see that we share common objectives. Together, we can tackle the challenges confronting our country and devise the necessary strategies to move forward. Our doors are open to all who are genuinely and positively dedicated to the advancement of our nation.

We require a Parliament that accurately mirrors the will of the people. The existing Parliament does not reflect that will. Hence, I took the decision to dissolve it yesterday. A cabinet was appointed in accordance with our parliamentary representation to steer the country in compliance with the constitution.
Every new day that the sun rises, our people hold one dream in their hearts.
It is that “tomorrow will be better than today!”
Yet, you and I have learned over many years that this dream has remained just that—a dream.
Opportunism, the thirst for power, and authoritarianism have impeded the progress of our country.
But now we have our final opportunity, one that cannot be squandered. Let us unite to create a flourishing and harmonious country that celebrates diversity.