"Don't Use My Pictures in Cutouts": President Instructs Ruling Party Politicians After Massive Cutout in Batticaloa Ignites Social Media Storm

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has instructed politicians, including those from his own party, to avoid excessive use of his image in cutouts and posters. The President's call for restraint comes in response to the recent controversy surrounding a massive cutout of his image in Batticaloa, which drew widespread criticism on social media for its extravagant display.

Wickremesinghe has reportedly expressed his concern over the unnecessary display of his image in public spaces, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the needs of the people above political self-promotion.

The massive cutout in Batticaloa, which was erected to welcome President Wickremesinghe for a public event, ignited a social media storm, with many citizens expressing their disapproval and labeling it as a misuse of public funds. The criticism centered on the perception that such extravagant displays divert resources away from essential public services.

In his directive, President Wickremesinghe advocated for a collective commitment among politicians to refocus their efforts on addressing the pressing issues faced by the nation, rather than indulging in excessive self-promotion through images and posters. He stressed that the government's primary responsibility is to serve the people and fulfill their needs.

The President's call for restraint and responsible political practices has resonated with many citizens who view it as a positive step toward more accountable governance. It highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between political visibility and the prudent use of resources for the benefit of the public.