“Opposition conspiring to intimidate state officials”

Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe told Parliament yesterday that he requests the members of the Opposition not to slander and make baseless accusations against state officials who cannot come to the Chamber and answer allegations.

He also said that the Opposition is engaged in a conspiracy to intimidate the officials who are working hard to bring the economy out of its present malaise. The State Minister said this while commenting on the gazette notification under the Essential Public Services Act.

He also said that the Government will protect all public servants who are working to bring the country to a better state.

The State Minister further said that International Monetary Fund (IMF) is very important to us for raising the standard of living of people, strengthening the economy, and dealing with foreign countries.

“The Opposition is trying to create various misconceptions at a time when we are holding discussions with the IMF. We urgently need the support of the International Monetary Fund. Only then will we be able to negotiate with other countries,” he said.