Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says relief for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah is far too important to be hindered by internal disputes.
Taking to ‘X’, Premadasa urged the Government to prioritize coordination and ensure uninterrupted support for families still waiting for aid.
“The Government must work closely with officers on the ground to ensure coordination and uninterrupted support. When families are still waiting, how can we allow for this confusion? he asked, stressing that relief must not be delayed.
His comments come after several trade unions representing government officers engaged in disaster relief operations announced their decision to withdraw from relief duties and launch a trade union action starting today (27 Feb).
The unions said more than 93 days have passed since the widespread disaster caused by Cyclone Ditwah, during which disaster relief officers and Grama Niladharis have worked continuously, day and night, serving as key coordinators between the government and affected communities. Despite these efforts, the unions said the government has failed to give adequate attention to unresolved issues affecting officers involved in disaster relief work.
Meanwhile, Secretary to the President Nandika Sanath Kumanayake yesterday called for urgent action to speed up relief and recovery efforts for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah, stressing the need for stronger coordination among state institutions.
Chairing a progress review meeting of the National Council for Disaster Management (NCDM), he said effective coordination among agencies responsible for disaster response is critical to ensuring timely assistance to affected populations. (Newswire)
