The winner of the 2019 Presidential Election, SLPP candidate Gotabaya Rajapaksa sworn in as the 7th Executive President of Sri Lanka today (November 18) in Anuradhapura. He took oaths before Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya.
Secretary to the President Udaya R Seniviratne read out the proclamation declaring Mr Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the President. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa were also present on this occasion.
Addressing the nation after the formal swearing-in ceremony at MahaMaluwa of Ruwanweli Maha Seya, President Rajapaksa thanked everyone who voted for his victory and welcomed the minor communities in the country to join hands with him to work towards the prosperity of the nation.
He said he will lead the country based on the Buddhist philosophy which upholds principles of equality and justice. While providing the state sponsorship to safeguard the traditional heritage of the nation he said he will take measures to protect the rights of the civilians to live in peace and reconciliation.
Furthermore he said that the time has come to work as a one force to build the nation and a people-centric government is a prerequisite to achieve this objective. The national security would be the top most priority and the state security mechanism will be strengthened to protect our Motherland.
Elaboration on his foreign policy, President Rajapaksa said that “We want to remain neutral in our foreign relations and stay out of any conflicts among the world powers”.
“We will have our fullest commitment to achieve the sustainable development goals of the UN”.
“The Government should always set an example to the society. Professionalism and efficiency should be the cornerstone of government of administrations. Meritocracy and technocracy should be promoted all times, corruption will be never tolerate under my administration”.
He called on other nations to respect the sovereignty of Sri Lanka.
The recently concluded elections saw the beginning of a new political culture in this country and the examples set would be continued in future activities of the government.
The new President highlighted the importance of using the modern technology in every aspect of the governance.
President Rajapaksa further said he would form a new government soon to carry out his policies.
He said it is his responsibility to serve every community in this country. No challenge is insurmountable if we work together.
“I love my country. I am proud of my country. I have a vision for my country. Hence, I called on everyone to join me in this journey,” he said.
