Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya, in her 2025 May Day message, declared that this year’s International Workers’ Day is a celebration of a historic turning point in Sri Lanka, as the country emerges from “five years of oppression by the ruling class” under a newly elected people’s government.

In her statement marking the 139th International Workers’ Day, Amarasuriya said the current administration is committed to reversing the damage caused by nepotism, corruption, and political favouritism, which for years denied justice to the working people of Sri Lanka.

“Let us commemorate May Day in a year marked by progress and under a government that represents the will of the people, putting an end to a painful chapter in history where the working class endured hardship, sacrifice, and struggle marked by blood and sweat,” she stated.

The Prime Minister described 2024 as a year of courageous political change, in which the people rejected a corrupt system and set the country on a new course. She noted that her government recognises the true needs of the people and is striving to correct the nation’s distorted economic, political, social, cultural, and moral foundations.

While acknowledging that deep-rooted corruption cannot be eliminated overnight, Amarasuriya said structural reforms are underway to rebuild trust in governance and improve the lives of ordinary people. A key focus, she said, is strengthening the economic power of all working communities – from public and private sector workers to entrepreneurs and farmers.

“A systematic program has been set up to strengthen the economic forces of all working people, including those in the state, private, business, and labour sectors,” she said, adding that efforts are also in place to empower farmers who are leading the nation’s journey towards food self-sufficiency.

Calling for unity and dedication, the Prime Minister urged citizens to join in building a stable, independent, and secure future that protects hard-won rights and upholds the dignity of labour.

“Let us work together, with unity and determination, to safeguard hard-won rights and rebuild the nation,” she concluded.