President Anura Kumara Dissanayake pledged his support for public servants who are committed to creating an efficient, citizen-focused public service. He assured that government officials dedicated to serving the people will no longer be subject to the political reprisals that have historically plagued the public sector.
The President made these remarks during a meeting with ministry officials following his assumption of duties as the Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries, and Aquatic Resources at the Ministry of Agriculture this morning (03).
During the discussion, President Dissanayake, together with ministry secretaries and senior officials, addressed the current challenges and future plans for the Ministry of Agriculture. He emphasized the ministry’s crucial role in eradicating rural poverty, noting that the effectiveness of public officials will determine the success of these efforts.
Reflecting on the recent presidential election, the President highlighted the public’s rejection of traditional political practices, citing economic hardships and dissatisfaction with public services as key factors behind the shift in political trust. He stressed his commitment to establishing an efficient and transparent public service, recognizing that widespread corruption and mismanagement contributed to the nation’s economic decline. The mandate given to him, he said, was a call to end this cycle.
President Dissanayake urged public servants to honor the public’s trust by working diligently to eliminate fraud and corruption within the state. He stressed that their dedication is essential to building an effective public service that meets the needs of the people.
Reiterating his stance against political retribution, the President assured that under his leadership, actions like unjust transfers or denial of promotions would be a thing of the past. He called on public servants to contribute to an efficient and responsive public service that satisfies the citizenry.
He also pointed out that the next forty days represent a transitional period, during which public servants must ensure the continuity of public services without disruption. The President hinted that new ministers would be appointed to these ministries following the next general election.
In conclusion, President Dissanayake affirmed that he would not subject public officials to public questioning or media spectacles, as was the practice of past leaders. Instead, he emphasized his intention to create a public service that respects the dignity of its officials while delivering on the expectations of the people.
