If the JVP’s claims are to be followed, judicial and prosecutorial powers would need to be handed over to them to declare the accused guilty

• The government's role is to initiate legal processes, not to deliver judgments.

• The JVP led the activities of the Anti-Corruption Secretariat during the ‘Good Governance’.

• Slogans alone are not enough to eliminate corruption: We have already taken steps to combat corruption-  President.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that while political parties like the National Peoples’ Power (NPP) led by Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) claim they will hold individuals accused of corruption accountable if they come to power, achieving such outcomes would require filing lawsuits and gaining judicial authority. He noted that this would necessitate constitutional changes.

The President explained that under the current legal framework, the government's role is limited to initiating legal proceedings, not delivering verdicts. He reminded attendees that during his tenure as Prime Minister, it was the JVP that directed the activities of the Anti-Corruption Secretariat, and they were aware of these processes.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during a roundtable discussion held today (07) at the Mandarina Hotel in Colombo with representatives of the Muslim civil society. He provided a comprehensive explanation of the steps taken to combat corruption and stimulate the economy, addressing questions raised by the civil society representatives.

The President highlighted the government's on-going efforts to combat fraud and corruption, noting that it has been working with international organizations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB) to strengthen anti-corruption measures. He also pointed out that his administration has already passed significant legislation, including the Anti-Corruption Act and the drafting of the Proceeds of Crime Bill, taking approximately 20 important steps in this regard.

In response to a question about legal cases against the Rajapaksa family, President Wickremesinghe reiterated that while the government files charges, it is ultimately the judiciary that determines guilt. He also noted that some political parties, such as JVP,

may claim they can convict individuals once in power, but this would require them to both initiate legal cases and assume judicial powers—something that would require constitutional amendments.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that while the government can initiate legal proceedings, it is not within its power to deliver verdicts. He also reminded that during his tenure as Prime Minister under the Good Governance, the JVP was involved in managing the Anti-Corruption Secretariat. Therefore, if they now claim they were not connected to those legal actions, it is simply untrue.

Addressing questions related to the economy, the President stated that while the government only intervenes in regulating essential commodity prices when necessary, market forces typically determine consumer goods prices. He also pointed out that the government provides financial support to low-income families through programs such as "Aswesuma."

In response to questions about industrial development, the President emphasized the need to shift from traditional "primary industries" to an export-based economy. He also mentioned that steps were being taken to increase the country's foreign reserves and extend the grace period for the repayment of sovereign bonds until 2029 as part of debt restructuring efforts.

Regarding questions about VAT on locally produced textiles, President Wickremesinghe clarified that VAT exemptions apply to exports, but local manufacturers must still pay the tax on domestic trade.

The President also outlined government initiatives to support new businesses, emphasizing the need to address brain drain by providing better opportunities for young professionals through digital transformation.

On the topic of public sector employment, the President stated that recruitment is based on skills. He also highlighted Sri Lanka's historic role as a commercial hub influenced by various religious and cultural factors and reaffirmed his government's commitment to transforming the country into an export-driven economy while maintaining national priorities.

The President addressed the controversy over cremation during the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging that a Parliamentary Select Committee would be formed to address the injustices caused by that policy.

Responding to a question about Sri Lanka's relations with Zionist countries, President Ranil Wickremesinghe clarified that while Sri Lanka maintains an Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel, it has not established a new Embassy in Jerusalem. He also expressed strong opposition to the actions in Gaza and reaffirmed his unwavering support for the establishment of a Palestinian state.

When asked about the displacement of Muslim communities in the Northern Province during the conflict with the LTTE, the President noted that many have since resettled elsewhere and appear reluctant to return to their original homes. Addressing land disputes in the Eastern Province, he emphasized that most of the land belongs to the government, and efforts are underway to find a fair resolution through dialogue.

This event was attended by several prominent figures, including Professor Maithree Wickramasinghe, former ministers President’s Counsel Faizer Mustapha, A.H.M. Fowzie, and former Governor Azath Salley, along with a large number of civil society representatives.