Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa criticized the government’s 2025 budget during a parliamentary debate, arguing that it fails to uphold the mandate given by the people. He claimed the financial plan contradicts key policy promises, including those outlined in A Rich Country, A Beautiful Life and Country to Anura.
Premadasa accused the government of abandoning commitments such as an alternative debt sustainability analysis referenced on page 105 of its policy framework, exacerbating economic hardship.
He criticized restrictive fiscal policies, including capping primary expenditure at 13% of GDP and limiting the primary balance to 2.3% of GDP—practices he said are rare globally.
Speaking of the IMF agreement, Premadasa called it “oppressive and distressing,” arguing that while economic stability is necessary, the government should renegotiate a more favourable deal rather than adhering to the terms negotiated by former President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
He further accused the government of failing to support public sector workers, including teachers, healthcare staff, and pensioners, by not delivering promised salary increases.
He also pointed to economic mismanagement, citing reduced benefits for the elderly and declining women’s labor force participation.
Premadasa likened the administration’s governance to that of Gotabaya and Mahinda Rajapaksa, alleging continued political victimization and discretionary project allocations.
Despite his criticism, he said the opposition would support constructive proposals for public welfare and urged the government to adapt to global economic realities and diversify Sri Lanka’s export market. (Newswire)
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