President Dissanayake made these remarks while participating in a meeting held yesterday (23) at the Presidential Secretariat to brief heads of media institutions on the ‘Nation United National Drive, to eradicate the drug menace.
It has been noted that a significant number of crimes are linked to the drug trade, which has evolved into a national crisis, jeopardizing the safety of both young people and school-aged children. Consequently, it has been acknowledged that this dangerous drug issue needs to be addressed through a comprehensive national initiative that guarantees strong political leadership, an efficient decision-making process and extensive public involvement.
As part of this national mission, the ‘Ratama Ekata’ (Nation United) National Operation is being implemented, with a major public awareness campaign as one of its key components. During the discussion, participants explored the potential contributions of both electronic and print media to this national communication effort.
Addressing the gathering, President Dissanayake further noted that the financial power of drug cartels and the crimes linked to them have deeply destabilized the economy, the social fabric, state institutions and even the rule of law pushing the country and society toward destruction. The President reaffirmed that the present government is determined not to allow this menace to continue and called upon all sectors of society to extend their full support to the effort.
The President highlighted that in previous eras of political systems, this criminal network had expanded freely and has now become deeply rooted in society. The President also recalled the cooperation received from institutions such as the Police, Customs, Department of Motor Traffic and the Department of Immigration and Emigration for this issue.
Reiterating the shared national responsibility, President Dissanayake underscored that every citizen has a duty to ensure this national tragedy is defeated once and for all for the sake of the country’s future generations.
The official launch of the ‘Nation United - National Drive’ will take place on October 30 at 10:00 a.m. at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Heads and representatives of state and private media institutions and officials from the entertainment industry were among those present at the event. PMD
