Presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa presents the Women's charter

COLOMBO(News 1st) - The Presidential Candidate of the New Democratic Front Sajith Premadasa presented a Women's Charter in Colombo today (October 21). Sajith Premadasa was joined by his mother Hema Premadasa at the event that took place at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium earlier today. The charter signed by Sajith Premadasa focuses on the areas of securing women's' rights and equality & justice. Minister Sajith Premadasa: "The essence of this women's charter is equality and justice. I pledged to remove all differences among women regardless of race, caste, marital status, language, motherhood, economic background or anything else. I would like to announce that we will take steps to enact this charter into law within 3 months of my ascending to office. I would like to add that I will establish an independent commission in this regard within a week of me accepting the office. We will also work to empower women in agriculture, while also developing systems to provide aid and helping engage in self-employment. We will also work to provide daycare facilities to all those involved in state-sector jobs. Some lose jobs because of motherhood. We will take steps to enforce laws against such persons while also providing those who lose jobs with new jobs. We will find ways to ensure that families and women affected by the war, families headed by women among others, will be taken care of. Once I become the President on the 16th, I promise to write off the financial debts of all women across the board. I would also like to state that I will appoint a Presidential task force to look into women's rights, and will also place offices at Area Secretariat level so as to put these pledges into action. I also pledge not to issue any permits for wine stores. I will also work to close all wine stores in close proximity to schools." Rosy Senanayake, Mayor of Colombo noted that they would win with a majority of 52%. She added that people claim Gotabaya Rajapaksa should be elected to ensure security. She went on to question how a man who fled the country for comfort and returned when his brother became the prime minister could provide national security. Minister Thalatha Atukorale, Minister of Justice & Prison Reforms noted that Sajith Premadasa is a person who treats his mother with utmost dignity and care along with his wife's. "By the 17th we will see the appointment of a son who treats his mother with the greatest dignity and respect," she added. Minister Chandrani Bandara, Minister of Women and Child Affairs noted that throughout Sri Lankan history no leader has given the respect for women they deserve. She added that Sajith Premadasa is the most suitable person to be the president as he is a simple and honest person who knows the common man. While a Women's' Charter was signed on this occasion, it must also be noted that this is the first time that a Presidential candidate has made a commitment of this nature.