President Ranil Wickremesinghe requested Sri Lanka’s youth not to forfeit their future opportunities by supporting “Malimawa” (JVP led by NPP) and Anura Kumara. The President highlighted that despite his request for clarification on Anura Kumara’s economic policies—which he argues are leading to shortages—he has yet to receive a response even after three days.
President Wickremesinghe emphasized his commitment to safeguarding the country’s economy and preventing a return to shortages that would burden the people’s lives. He made these remarks during the “Ranil ta Puluwan” rally held in Puttalam today (13).
In a special tribute, the President was honoured with a motor cycle display on water, created by a local young innovator from Puttalam, alongside the national flag in the Puttalam lagoon. This gesture highlighted the ingenuity and support of the youth in the region.
The President announced that, due to the strengthening of the country’s foreign exchange reserves, the Cabinet has approved lifting the temporary ban on importing automobiles and non-mechanical automobile spare parts. Additionally, as part of the government’s relief program for taxpayers, the Cabinet has also approved a revision of the Personal Income Tax (PIT) structure, set to take effect in April 2025.
President Wickremesinghe further explained;
I recently learned about the innovative motor cycle display on water by a young man in the Puttalam lagoon. This kind of ingenuity is exactly what I hope to nurture in our youth, empowering them to achieve great things on the global stage. Additionally, I want to emphasize that the Kalpitiya Economic Centre and Fishing Harbour projects will move forward as planned.
Former Agriculture Minister Anura Kumara has accused me of launching a smear campaign against him in Kandy. However, if his economic policies were enacted, they could lead to the value of the dollar rising to 400 rupees, and if the International Monetary Fund (IMF) were to withdraw from our agreement, it could reach Rs.500.
Our budget was crafted in alignment with our election manifesto, unlike the alternative budget which conflicts with our IMF agreement. Their proposed budget gap of 400 billion includes 100 billion from GDP and a 300 billion shortfall that would breach IMF conditions. Borrowing to cover this gap would devalue the rupee, risking economic collapse. Adhering to IMF agreements is crucial for protecting the value of our currency and maintaining economic stability.
The cost of living has been rising, placing a heavier burden on the people compared to the time of former Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s administration. Under the economic policies proposed by former Agriculture Minister Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the NPP, the rupee is unlikely to strengthen and is instead continuing to depreciate. I questioned Anura Kumara on whether he could safeguard the rupee, and whether he is capable of fulfilling the responsibilities of the presidency if he cannot.
I urge the public to consider why they would vote for leaders who exacerbate the cost of living. The economic strategy of the “Malimawa” imposes significant hardships on the people. I wonder if there is any regret over this approach.
Recall the food, fuel, gas, and medicine shortages of 2022. Did Anura Kumara not feel dismayed by the suffering of the people? His policies seem to threaten a return to such shortages.
This inquiry is not a smear tactic but a genuine question about whether NPP and former Minister Anura Kumara have the capability to lead the country’s economy effectively.
I have worked hard to rebuild the economy, making difficult decisions to advance it. I had hoped to provide relief to the people soon, and we have seen a reduction in the prices of goods in recent months. Government employees received allowances, and there were wage increases in the private sector. We have gradually alleviated the people’s burdens and are committed to further easing their lives.
With the strengthening of our foreign exchange reserves, we have decided to lift the import ban on cars, allowing them to be brought back into Sri Lanka.
We have raised the basic tax threshold for taxpayers from Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 720,000. As their income increases, the amount they pay in taxes will decrease. This is a significant step we have taken to benefit taxpayers.
In contrast, I question whether people are willing to entrust their future to the “Malimawa”, which lacks a clear economic policy. Without a proper explanation, it seems that the “Malimawa”, does not have the strength to effectively build this country.
I have inquired with Anura Kumara whether his economic policy focuses on imports or exports, but after three days, I have yet to receive a response.
Recently, several young people came to speak with me, including supporters of both my administration and the “Malimawa”. When I asked why they support the “Malimawa”, they responded that they believe in giving them a chance. I questioned whether they are willing to gamble with their future. They replied that they do not wish to risk their future, expressing a desire to avoid returning to past difficulties. I urge those considering Anura Kumara to reflect on whether this is not, in fact, risking their future.
Therefore, I encourage you to vote for the “Gas Cylinder” on September 21, supporting the program that will secure and build your future.
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