With the objective of liberating our society from toxic narcotic drugs that have become a national disaster in Sri Lanka, the Government’s national initiative titled “The Whole Nation Together” was officially launched today – on Friday 16 January 2026, in Jaffna, under the chairmanship of His Excellency the President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Under the theme “Walk Away,” a grand public rally was held today at 2.00 p.m. at the Kokuvil Technical College grounds, with the participation of His Excellency the President, Cabinet Ministers, and the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
The event commenced with a welcome dance performed by students of Jaffna Vembadi Girls’ High School, followed by a welcome address by the Jaffna District Secretary, M. Piiratheepan. Subsequently, Chandramouleesan Laleesan, Principal of the Kopay Teachers’ Training College, delivered an address.
Addressing the gathering, the Hon. Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Resources, Ramalingam Chandrasekar, emphasized the importance of society uniting as one force against drug abuse.
Commending police officers who had demonstrated outstanding performance in anti-drug operations, His Excellency the President presented them with honours and awards.
As a key highlight of the event, a pledge affirming commitment to remain free from drugs and to protect society was taken by thousands of people in the presence of the President.
Delivering the concluding keynote address, His Excellency the President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stressed that drug eradication is essential to safeguard future generations. He emphasized that, alongside legal measures, every citizen must personally adopt the “Walk Away” mindset and distance themselves from narcotic drugs.
The event was also attended by the Hon. Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Ananda Wijepala, and Hon. Members of Parliament for the Jaffna District, J. Rajeevan, K. Ilankumaran, and S. Sribavanantharajah. In addition, the Jaffna District Secretary, district secretariat officials, heads of departments, a large number of public, and school students were present.
