News Today: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s May Day 2025 speech and national message

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, addressing the National People’s Power (NPP) May Day rally at Galle Face, urged trade unions to refrain from making minor demands while politicians and public servants are making personal and institutional sacrifices to rebuild the country.

Under the powerful theme “The People’s Power That Builds the Nation”, the President called for unity, respect, and shared responsibility in shaping Sri Lanka’s future. He reminded trade unionists that this Government has already taken bold steps to improve workers’ conditions—increasing basic salaries, distress allowances, and overtime pay—without any prior demands.

“The trade union movement must move past outdated attitudes of fighting for small perks. We are letting go of privileges once guaranteed by laws and regulations to make space for national rebuilding,” he said.

President Dissanayake also emphasized that the NPP-led Government is committed to empowering the public service through a system that values merit, competence, and responsibility over political favoritism. This, he stated, was essential in forming a strong state sector capable of leading national development.

He pointed out that the current administration is deeply aligned with trade union values, having consistently supported their struggles and aspirations in the past. “There is no need for division. We call on all unions to join this united effort to revive the nation,” he added.

The President noted that Sri Lankan youth now have hope again thanks to the NPP’s governance model. What was once a generation with shattered dreams is now being shaped into one that can dare to dream of a better future.

He concluded by asserting that the NPP stands as the only united political force in the country today, one not driven by greed or factionalism but by a shared vision to rebuild the nation.