Speaking to journalists at the SLPP headquarters, Rajapaksa said that had the President attended the BRICS summit when invited, the government could have secured fuel under more favorable terms much earlier. He argued that proactive engagement with energy-producing nations within the bloc, including Russia, would have been more effective than relying on recent diplomatic visits.
Rajapaksa also condemned the government’s domestic economic policies, pointing to the rising cost of living, burdensome taxes, and alleged failures in disaster relief. He claimed that checks promised to victims of the recent ‘Ditva’ cyclone have bounced, leaving people without the compensation they were promised.
Highlighting the rural and agricultural sector, Rajapaksa accused the government of neglecting local farming in favor of food imports, warning of a growing fertilizer shortage and increasing food insecurity in villages.
Using a cricket metaphor, he urged the government to stop blaming previous administrations for current failures. “The people have chosen a ‘Captain’ and a ‘Team.’ That team needs to do its job now,” he said, emphasizing that leadership must take responsibility and act decisively.
Rajapaksa concluded by reaffirming the SLPP’s commitment to supporting rural communities and standing with the people during challenging economic conditions.
