Speaking to the media, the opposition lawmaker dismissed the government's optimism surrounding the upcoming IMF tranche scheduled for release on May 27. Marikkar asserted that while the influx of foreign currency might artificially steady the US Dollar for a brief seven-day window, the stringent, underlying commitments made to the global lender will soon unleash a massive wave of inflation across the country.
"Write down what I am saying today," Marikkar cautioned, predicting an inevitable and imminent spike of LKR 150 per liter for diesel following next week's developments. He emphasized that the administration has compromised on national interests to satisfy IMF conditions, which will directly impact the cost of essential goods.
The SJB MP further detailed that price hikes will rapidly extend to essential imported commodities, including potatoes, dhal, sugar, cooking oil, and medicinal drugs. Furthermore, Marikkar noted that even locally produced goods like rice will see a steep price increase due to the rising costs of imported fertilizers. He concluded by stating that as housewives bear the brunt of these unbearable kitchen expenses, the public will deliver a resounding response to the government in the upcoming postal voting.
