2026-02-06 / Debate: Extension of Emergency Regulations under Public Security Ordinance 2026-02-06
## Summary
Hon. Kottahachchi defended the Government's decision to extend a state of emergency following the "Ditva" cyclone, which struck the previous month, arguing that emergency powers are necessary to remove bureaucratic bottlenecks and enable swift disaster recovery rather than for any other political purpose. She framed the disaster response within a broader narrative of national renewal, referencing the Independence Day theme "Rebuild Sri Lanka" and emphasizing the restoration of rule of law, accountable governance, and public trust as parallel objectives. The speaker rejected Opposition criticism of the emergency extension, attributing it to opportunism, and highlighted three government strengths: responsive leadership, transparent policy-making, and responsible citizen conduct during the crisis. She warned that the Opposition's obstructionist approach would consign them to permanent minority status.
Hon. Presiding Member, the country faces not a simple challenge but a deep socio-economic-political transition. The Opposition accuses us of repeating a “76-year curse,” but the hard truth is that decades of structural weaknesses brought us here: collapsing institutions and broken public trust. As the new Government prepared to face these, the “Ditva” cyclone struck last month.
As mothers know, in such disasters not only walls fall — family safety, household economy, and the hopes for children’s futures are shattered. In response, this Government has strategically and proactively managed the situation using the necessary legal instruments and regulations. This is not the first disaster we have faced, but we have managed it effectively and humanely.
Beyond simply delivering houses, land, and material and financial aid, we must demonstrate — to our people and to the world — that we are a strong state with a deep bond of trust with its citizens. That is why we extend the emergency: to manage and rebuild efficiently. The opportunistic Opposition, which trades in negativity in and out of Parliament, will not acknowledge this.
Our Independence Day theme was “Rebuild Sri Lanka” — not only physically, but by strengthening the rule of law, accountable governance, and transparent state processes. We need the emergency not for anything else, but to remove bureaucratic bottlenecks and inefficiencies that hinder swift action to restore lives and property after this grave calamity.
Three points the Opposition refuses to see: humane leadership — a leader who meets people at the disaster front, listens, and respects the people’s mandate; an administration with clear, transparent policies and decisions; and a responsible citizenry that asked only for what they truly needed and did not misuse public funds. These are the strengths that are rebuilding the country.
If the Opposition chooses to stand aside and obstruct this journey, they will remain forever in Opposition.
Thank you.