Despite government assurances, people affected by recent adverse weather conditions have yet to receive any compensation, said Namal Rajapaksa, National Organizer of the Lanka Podujana Peramuna and Member of Parliament.
Addressing the media, Rajapaksa highlighted that officials at the district and divisional levels—including Government Agents, Divisional Secretariats, and Grama Niladharis—have not been formally informed in writing about the procedures for providing compensation to those affected. He noted that while the President had made statements in Parliament regarding assistance, conflicting information has been presented in the District Development Committees.
“It is regrettable that political authorities hold ceremonies even to issue death certificates,” Rajapaksa said. “Instead of wasting time on ceremonies, what the people need are land deeds and permanent solutions.”
He urged the government to adopt a practical approach to relief, emphasizing that there is still no proper mechanism for the affected communities to voice their concerns directly. “They only share their concerns when we visit them,” he added.
Rajapaksa further criticized the government’s failure to adequately support those severely affected by the bad weather. Many displaced families remain uncertain about when they will be able to return to their homes from temporary shelters.
He also pointed out that officials from the National Building Research Institute have not yet visited villages where evacuation warnings were issued, delaying necessary assessments.
“Authorities must take urgent measures to address the concerns of affected communities and ensure timely relief and resettlement,” Rajapaksa said, calling for immediate action to provide practical solutions rather than temporary fixes.
