President Ranil Wickremesinghe has criticized Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the National People’s Power (NPP), for avoiding his question about whether the NPP’s economic policy is export- or import-oriented, while now inviting him to a debate.
The President suggested that Anura, along with Sunil Handunnetti and Harshana Suriyapperuma, should first hold an internal debate to clarify the NPP’s economic policy before challenging him. He also proposed setting up a time for a video discussion with Anura, himself, and the IMF Managing Director. He joked about including Sajith Premadasa in the discussion, noting that Sajith often dominates conversations.
President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during a meeting with intellectuals and business leaders from the Kurunegala District at the Asliya Golden Cassandra Hotel in Kurunegala on September 10.
The President questioned why Anura’s recent policy statement outlined a budget with Rs. 8,900 billion in expenditures and Rs. 4,900 billion in income, leading to a staggering Rs. 4,000 billion deficit that could devastate the economy. He emphasized that instead of making empty promises, Anura should present a clear economic strategy.
The President contrasted this with his own government’s budget, which projects expenditures of Rs. 6,800 billion and income of Rs. 5,100 billion, resulting in a manageable deficit of Rs. 1,700 billion, or 5.2% of GDP. “We are confident in our capacity to manage this deficit effectively,” he said.
Wickremesinghe warned that the NPP’s proposed policies, including tax concessions, would reduce income to Rs. 4,900 billion, creating a deficit of Rs. 4,000 billion, or 11.9% of GDP. He questioned how the NPP plans to advance the economy under these conditions.
He further warned that breaching IMF agreements and seeking funds from the market could push interest rates to 25%, the dollar could rise to Rs. 500, and IMF support could be lost, risking economic collapse. The President reiterated that Sri Lanka needs an export-driven economy to strengthen its financial standing.
Recently, Anura stated in Kelaniya that his policy includes an export-oriented approach. However, the President pointed out that Anura’s proposal to abolish free trade agreements contradicts this strategy, as these agreements are vital for boosting exports.
Wickremesinghe noted that when his government introduced the Economic Transformation Act, NPP members Sunil Handunnetti and Harshana Suriyapperuma filed a lawsuit against it, claiming the export economy was unconstitutional.
The President remarked, “Anura has invited me to a debate in Anamaduwa, but how can I participate without knowing whether their economic strategy focuses on exports or imports?” He called for a debate among Anura, Sunil, and Harshana to clarify the NPP’s economic stance before he joins any discussion.
The President reaffirmed his willingness to arrange a video discussion with Anura and the IMF Managing Director and even extended an invitation to Sajith Premadasa, albeit with a jest about Sajith’s tendency to dominate conversations.
In closing, Wickremesinghe urged Anura Kumara Dissanayake to present a clear and viable economic policy, rather than just making speeches from the platform. He emphasized the need for the NPP to clarify whether their strategy favors an export-driven or import-driven economy, stressing that Sri Lanka’s economic recovery hinges on clear and consistent policies.
