Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has accused the government of pursuing economic policies that go beyond the commitments outlined in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement signed under the previous administration.
Addressing a public rally in Pannala, Premadasa claimed that both the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the National People’s Power (NPP) had pledged during the last election campaign to seek revisions to the IMF programme, but alleged that the current government has instead adopted policies that are more stringent than those agreed under former President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
He alleged that the government has imposed additional tax burdens on the public, claiming that fiscal targets have been increased beyond the IMF’s original requirements. According to Premadasa, this has resulted in higher revenue targets and reduced capital expenditure in an effort to meet fiscal objectives.
The Opposition Leader further alleged that the government is attempting to undermine democratic institutions by exerting influence over the judiciary. He referred to vacancies in the Supreme Court and proposals concerning the retirement age of judges as matters of concern.
Premadasa also accused the government of failing to honor key election promises, including its pledge to abolish the Executive Presidency, and claimed that its actions are weakening democratic governance.
