Dhammika Perera speaking to the media for the first time after being sworn in as a Member of Parliament

Businessman Dhammika Perera addressed the media today (June 22) after being sworn in as a Member of Parliament.

He was responding to questions raised by journalists.

Question: How do you see this?

A: I actually came here to work for the country. Before making the pledge, I gave my declaration of assets and liabilities to the Speaker. I also handed over my tax clearance certificate to the Speaker. I think that will make a difference.

I came to Parliament because there was a problem. Now my role is to find solutions to the problem. I think I can do it and overcome this problem.

Question: A group of people went to court to ask you not to give them the seat? Is it in the midst of challenges that you came to this?

Answer: When there are challenges, it is beautiful to come. Even a river is beautiful when it flows, isn't it?

Question: Can you bring investment to Sri Lanka?

Answer: Yes. Even in a situation like this I think I can bring. I was actually the Chairman of the Board of Investment at the time of the war. So I'm pretty sure I can bring that. Because at a time when jobs are being lost, I really came to create jobs.

Question: You are a big businessman in the private sector. What can you say to the distressed people and youth?

A: I know their intentions very well. So I think I'll be able to overcome that challenge the most.

Question: Didn't Mr. Basil speak to you?

A: No, I was called. I'm really thankful to him too. Because I told someone else to give me my position. But I respect him for giving me this opportunity, of his own free will.

Q: It is reported that Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa also came today to congratulate you?

Answer: I have not yet found that in Parliament. I met him this evening

Question: Is the President on one side now? Prime Minister on another side? Now how can you balance this while going on a journey?

Answer: The country can be rebuilt only if everyone unites here and not only those sides but also the Opposition unites to carry out this task. The country we want to bring there.

Question: Have you been informed by now that this is the ministerial post that will be handed over to you?

A: I think in my capacity it has now been gazetted twice. Then let's see what happens… I have written 23 ministries in my book. If I get any of those 23 I'm ready to do it.

Q: Don't you think you boarded this sinking ship?

Answer: Everyone seems to be drowning but I do not see drowning. I see this as a fast-moving ship. So that's how I got into this. Stop the paddle. Nowadays, an ocean liner can carry anyone to a safe place. But when a storm comes, it's hard to carry. So that's why I actually came and participated in this work.

Dhammika Perera was sworn in as a Member of Parliament before the Speaker this morning (June 22).