24/11/2009 - The Island

SLNC aimed at giving all Lankans one national identity

 

 

The following statement was issued by Chairman B. Sirisena Cooray on the formation of Sri Lankan National Congress aimed at creating a society with a Sri Lankan Identity.


"It was through the strength and resolution of leaders belonging to all communities that this country was able to achieve much ‘yearned’ political emancipation from its colonial masters.


The institution that brought these leaders together for this historic and land mark event was known as Ceylon National Congress.


The resolute and tireless commitment of all the leaders, who rose beyond petty political and other social differences, set an example to the entire country when they stood in unison in the discharge of their historical duty.


In the present context, the incumbent President takes pride of place for having vanquished terrorism which plagued the country for almost three decades. This was possible, only because the entire nation joined hands with the political leadership with commitment to achieve the target.


Today the challenge before us is to develop the country and achieve economic emancipation and prosperity for the well being of the fellow countrymen.


At this crucial and sensitive juncture of our history it is imperative to bring all who are in conflict due to various social phenomena under one identity and one Sri Lankan philosophy.


The aims and objectives of Sri Lanka National Congress are to achieve these targets within the Sri Lankan society.


National unity is an important factor in an era of nation building; hence it is the determined effort of Sri Lanka National Congress to create a broad platform for co-habitation of people who subscribe to various shades of opinion.


Minister Milinda Moragoda who believes in this philosophy functions as the leader of Sri Lanka National Congress while R. A. D. Sirisena who has a wealth of experience in rural development activities has been elected as the General Secretary. The administrative committee, of Sri Lanka National Congress consists of twenty members representing all sectors.


People representing various communities, faiths, political ideologies and cultures participated in the initial discussions for the formation of Sri Lanka National Congress.


The importance of creating a new political philosophy devoid of narrow political differences was emphasized at the inaugural meeting of the Congress.

Sri Lanka National Congress as an initial step had decided to align with the United People’s Freedom alliance and to pledge its support to the development programme launched by the incumbent President."