Johnston tells Opposition MPs anticipating another Islamic extremist attack to complain to CID

Chief Government Whip and Highways Minister Johnston Fernando yesterday called on Opposition MPs who were anticipating a possible future terror attacks by the remnants of Islamic extremist groups to make statements to the CID.

Addressing the media during an inspection tour to observe the renovation of roads in Giriulla to ease traffic congestion in the town, the Minister said the CID would conduct investigations if complaints are made.

“The Opposition MPs make various allegations and try to create a fear psychosis among people of possible terror attack by the extremist Islamic groups. Then there are some who make statements with innuendos that those who masterminded the April 21 attacks are now in the government pointing out that the SLPP could form a government because of the tragedy. All they should do is to go before the CID and give whatever information that they have so it could be investigated,” the Minister said, adding that TNA Batticaloa District MP Shanakiyan Rasamanikkam had raised the same allegation and that the MP should go to the CID because that should be the latter’s civic duty.

“He could learn from the example of SJB MP Ashok Abeysinghe, who made a similar statement and then fainted when he was questioned by the CID on his claim.”

“We have been able to establish one law for the entire country and all citizens are under that law. The recent arrest of Jaffna Mayor who attempted to propagate the LTTE ideology is an example. Could anyone imagine what would have happened if the Jaffna Mayor had tried to do the same under the yahapalana government? The LTTE-uniform wearing outfit would have still been manning the roads of the Jaffna town then. Our government would not tolerate such threats to national security. We will not let a Mayor do the job of the police. That is the difference between us and those who criticise us.”

Senior officials of the Road Development Authority were present on the occasion.