Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP S.M. Marikkar challenged the government to hold Provincial Council Elections and prove its public support. Speaking at a media briefing in Ethul Kotte on Sunday, he claimed that the country’s economy, investments, and several major sectors continue to face a serious decline under the current administration.
Rising Prices and Utility Costs Come Under Fire.
Marikkar said the government came to power after promising to remove VAT on food and healthcare services, reduce electricity tariffs, and provide fuel at lower prices. However, he alleged that the administration has increased fuel prices and plans to raise electricity tariffs by 43 percent. He also claimed that the Ceylon Electricity Board shifted from a profit of Rs. 140 billion in 2024 to a loss of Rs. 38 billion due to poor management.
Debt Burden and Currency Depreciation Raise Concerns.
The SJB parliamentarian stated that rising prices of essential goods have placed a heavy burden on the public, forcing some families to reduce their daily meals. He further claimed that the Sri Lankan Rupee has weakened significantly against the US Dollar, increasing the country’s debt burden by nearly Rs. 2 trillion. Marikkar also alleged that Sri Lanka’s total debt has risen from USD 93 billion to USD 107 billion during the current administration despite limited development progress.
