Cost of living rising dramatically despite Govt promises – Sajith

Our country is currently facing numerous critical challenges, and although the incumbent President promised to reduce taxes during his campaign, he has failed to deliver on this promise even after two discussions with the IMF, leaving the public in a state of uncertainty, said Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) leader Sajith Premadasa.

Speaking at a public gathering in central Colombo, the SJB leader emphasised that the cost of living has risen dramatically, and despite promises from the government to reduce the prices of goods and fuel, no relief has been provided. The Government has created a new era of queues, with lines still forming for essentials like coconut and passports, and the prices of essential food items continue to rise, he added.

Premadasa stated that the SJB, as a party that genuinely considers the welfare of the people, would amend the IMF agreement to ease the suffering of the public, who are now frustrated and disillusioned by the current President’s actions. He explained that while he had engaged with the IMF from the Opposition, the IMF agreed to modify the agreement during those discussions. Even the IMF’s review of Sri Lanka has now been postponed.

Furthermore, he noted that the IMF had originally suggested that debt repayment be resumed in 2033, but the previous government, led by the former President, signed an agreement advancing this to 2028. Considering the country’s current economic growth rate, repayment by 2028 would be unfeasible, highlighting the need for a revised agreement.

Premadasa called on the people to support the SJB to pull the country out of this crisis, emphasising that the SJB is the only party capable of rescuing the nation. He urged the public to think not only about immediate relief, but also about the future of the next generation, adding that continued suffering is not an option and that only the SJB can bring meaningful change.

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