NPP MP responds to criticism over No Muslim rep in Cabinet

November 18, 2024 at 5:11 PM

National Peoples’ Power (NPP) Colombo MP Dr Rizvie Salih says the NPP is of the view that the primary condition for leading a ministry should be a person’s qualifications, skills, and political acumen, and not their gender, race, or religion.

Responding to criticism over no Muslim representatives in the newly appointed Cabinet, Dr Rizvie Salih said he has full confidence that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed the right individuals to the right ministries.

In a statement on social media, Dr Rizvie Salih said “As someone with far more insight into their capabilities and contributions than the rest of us, his decisions are undoubtedly rooted in merit.”

Dr Rizvie Salih pointed out that the calls to appoint a minister based solely on religion risk fueling unnecessary divisions and undermining the very unity the country needs to move forward.

“We elected the NPP because we trust their vision and commitment to building a better Sri Lanka for everyone, regardless of religious or ethnic differences. Let us honour that trust by giving this government the space to deliver results without being distracted by divisive debates over who we think should hold specific ministries. What matters is the progress of the country, not the labels of individuals,” he added. (Newswire)