COLOMBO: Seyed Ali Zahir Moulana who was sworn in as a member of parliament on Tuesday , October 17 made a comprehensive speech revealing his aims and aspirations for the future
“ Hon. Speaker,
Today, I stand before you with a profound sense of purpose, gratitude, and determination, as I deliver my maiden speech in the Ninth Parliament of Sri Lanka. It is a great honor and privilege to represent the people of the Batticaloa District yet again, and I am keenly aware of the responsibilities that come with role having served my constituents in four parliaments prior to this.
First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Batticaloa who have placed their trust in me. Your unwavering support and faith in me as your representative is both humbling and inspiring. I am profoundly honored to be your voice in this esteemed institution, and I am committed to serving your interests with unwavering dedication.
I also want to express my appreciation to the National Election Commission of Sri Lanka for ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process, which is fundamental to the strength of our democracy. I commend their tireless efforts to uphold the principles of democratic governance.
Today, I also reflect on the unique circumstances that have led me to this historic moment. My predecessor, who was expelled by the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress, saw his expulsion upheld through a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court, a unanimous decision by a three-judge bench that sets a significant precedent. This decision solidifies the presence of political parties and strengthens the electoral process. It ensures that unlawful, corrupt party crossovers are discouraged and enforceable. It is with great respect for the rule of law that I step into this role. I am deeply committed to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability in my tenure as a Member of Parliament.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to Hon. Rauff Hakeem, the Party Leader of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in the success of our party. I am grateful for his guidance, trust, and support, and I am proud to be a part of a political organization that seeks to represent the diverse voices of our society.
As we embark on this legislative journey, I am acutely aware of the significant challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Our district, Batticaloa, is a region of incredible potential and diversity. It has experienced its share of struggles, but it is also a testament to the resilience and unity of its people. Together, we will work towards a brighter future for our district and our nation.
One of the most pressing issues facing our district and our country is the ethnic question. The people of the North and East have borne the brunt of conflict and its aftermath for far too long. It is our collective responsibility to address the grievances of ethnic minorities, foster reconciliation, and ensure their full participation in the socio-political fabric of our nation. We must strive for a united Sri Lanka where all citizens can live in dignity and peace.
Similarly, we must recognize that our struggle for peace and justice is mirrored on the global stage, notably in the plight of the people of Palestine. Just as the ethnic minorities in Sri Lanka have long sought reconciliation and equal rights, the people of Palestine face a deeply entrenched conflict that continues to cause immense suffering at the hands of a brutal regime whose actions can only be described as a genocide. The ongoing violence and oppression in Palestine demand our attention and solidarity. As Sri Lankans, we understand the pain of ethnic conflict, and we must take a strong and principled stand to pledge our unwavering support for the people of Palestine. The suffering of innocent civilians and the violation of their rights must not go unnoticed, and we have a moral duty to speak out against such injustices.
In addition to these pressing issues, we must also focus on the economic development of our district. Investment in our agricultural sector, modernizing infrastructure, and promoting entrepreneurship are essential to improving the living standards of our constituents. Quality education, accessible healthcare, and environmental preservation must also be at the forefront of our agenda.
In conclusion, I want to once again thank the people of Batticaloa for their trust and support, the National Election Commission for their diligence, the judiciary for their commitment to the rule of law, and the Party Leader of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress for his leadership.
As I renew this legislative journey, let us remember that our diversity is our strength, and inclusivity and unity are the keys to progress. Together, we can create a Batticaloa and a Sri Lanka that thrive, that is prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive. I look forward to working with my fellow parliamentarians to achieve these goals and make a positive difference in the lives of our constituents.
Thank you, and let us work together for a brighter future for Batticaloa, for Sri Lanka, and for all those who seek justice, peace, and solidarity.”
