Sunil Handunnetthi, a parliamentary candidate for the National People’s Force, expressed uncertainty over the nature of a recent $200 million fund received from the World Bank following the current government’s rise to power. According to Handunnetthi, media reports suggested that this was a grant, but he has been unable to confirm if the money is actually a grant or a loan due to the lack of official clarification from government sources.
Handunnetthi made these remarks on the program Karata Kara, broadcast on National Television. He underscored the importance of transparency, highlighting that the distinction between a loan and a grant significantly impacts national debt obligations and public accountability. He also stressed the responsibility of the government to clarify such financial dealings, as they have long-term implications for the country’s economic health.
This ambiguity has fueled questions about the government’s financial arrangements, and Handunnetthi called for an official statement to clarify the terms under which the World Bank’s support has been provided.
