We Will Not Allow Racism to Drag the Country Backward – Prime Minister Calls on Women to Lead Change

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya declared that the government will not allow anyone to drag the country backward by inciting racism, urging women to step forward and carry forward the transformative change that has begun.

She made these remarks while addressing the Mannar District Women’s Meeting held on February 15 in the Adampan area of the Mannar District. The event was attended by Member of Parliament Jegatheeswaran, municipal and divisional council representatives, and a large gathering of women from the district.

Women at the Heart of National Progress

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted the significant demographic and social power of women, noting that approximately 52 percent of the country’s population are women.

“That means women constitute a powerful segment of our country’s population,” she said, while questioning whether that strength is adequately reflected in practice across various sectors and in everyday life.

Dr. Amarasuriya emphasized that women have borne the brunt of the country’s past conflicts. Recalling the decades of war and violence that created deep divisions and mistrust, she noted that many women continue to suffer the consequences—having lost parents, children, siblings, and spouses. Even though the war ended years ago, she said, peace has yet to fully take root in people’s hearts.

“There are still women who do not know what happened to their loved ones. Many continue to struggle alone to protect and sustain their families,” she added.

Firm Stand Against Racism and Division

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to equality and unity, the Prime Minister stated that the administration is firmly opposed to racism and division.

“We believe everyone in this country should be able to live safely with equal rights,” she said. However, she warned that certain groups continue attempting to create ethnic and religious divisions for personal political gain.

“They are not interested in ending corruption, protecting democracy, ensuring equal application of the law, or strengthening the economy. Their only objective is to gain power for themselves,” she said.

Dr. Amarasuriya stressed that such forces must not be allowed to reverse the country’s forward journey.

Economic Recovery and Institutional Reform

Reflecting on the economic crisis of 2022, the Prime Minister noted that the country experienced a severe collapse. However, by 2025, the government had managed to stabilize and strengthen the economy by curbing corruption, theft, and waste.

She pointed out that when Cyclone Ditwah struck, the government was able to provide assistance to affected communities without resorting to new loans—a sign of improved fiscal management.

In a landmark achievement, she said, profits of the state-owned dairy enterprise Milco were distributed among dairy farmers for the first time in 21 years. Within a year, by increasing revenue streams and minimizing waste, the institution was able to share its profits with producers.

“We are rebuilding institutions that have fallen apart, ending fraud and corruption, and ensuring that benefits reach the people,” she said.

Tackling the Drug Menace and Strengthening Rule of Law

The Prime Minister identified the drug menace as one of the most pressing challenges facing the country today, expressing concern about children becoming victims of narcotics and the resulting rise in family disputes and insecurity.

She noted that the President has made a special commitment to eradicating harmful drugs. In the past, she alleged, those in power had protected criminal groups, preventing proper law enforcement.

“Today, we have instructed the police to enforce the law correctly. The police can now perform their duties properly, and the judiciary is delivering independent decisions,” she said, emphasizing that the law must apply equally to all.

She acknowledged that gaps in enforcement remain, particularly concerning violence and abuse against women and children. The government, she said, is increasing judicial capacity and taking steps to ensure such cases are addressed more swiftly and effectively.

Education Reform and Equal Opportunities

Recognizing the sacrifices mothers make for their children’s education, Dr. Amarasuriya outlined several education reforms underway.

After a five-year gap, graduate teachers are being recruited this year and will be assigned to schools with vacancies. The government has also begun filling long-standing principal vacancies and improving school infrastructure.

“There is no distinction between big schools and small schools. Every school belongs to our children,” she said.

Plans are in place to develop one school in each division, as nominated by District Development Committees, and to establish smart classrooms in every secondary school. Additionally, a new curriculum has been introduced for Grade One students starting this year.

Empowering Women in the Workforce

The Prime Minister highlighted the significant contribution women make to the national economy, while noting that they often receive the lowest wages. She emphasized the need to create safer and more supportive environments for women, particularly those engaged in self-employment or formal employment.

Facilities must be developed, she said, to ensure the safety and care of children so that women can participate fully in economic life.

A Call for Women’s Leadership

Concluding her address, Dr. Amarasuriya made a direct appeal to women to take up leadership roles and prevent the resurgence of division and hatred.

“Women are among those most affected by racism. Should we allow ourselves to be divided again and let discord rise? No,” she said.

“To carry forward the change we have begun, women must step forward. There is still much work to be done. We will not allow our forward journey to be reversed.”