Rajapakse says holding democratic elections in the east comes second only to Sri Lanka receiving universal franchise

President Mahinda Rajapakse says holding democratic elections in the east comes second only to Sri Lanka receiving universal franchise.
He said the pledge made during the presidential election to liberate the north and east are now being fulfilled. In addition, 6 billion rupees have been allocated for the development of the east. The president said the government’s aim is to develop the province into a commercial hub through upgrading infrastructure such as highways, railway and bridges. Steps are also being taken to improve fishing and tourism industries in the east.
The president said the Oluwil harbour is being upgraded and two major power plants are being constructed in Sampoor and Vellur.

President Rajapakse said the people of the east have set a great example by choosing the vote rather than the bullet to fulfil their aspirations. He pledged to grant this democratic victory to the people of the north very soon.