Member of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake warns that Sri Lanka is heading towards a critical situation where people may be forced to go hungry, comparing it to the scarcity experienced during the harvest season.
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, he said:
“When Donald Trump raised concerns in Parliament about the rising taxes, I was told that a response would be given within two months. Now, Sri Lanka is ranked sixth in the world in terms of the highest tax burden. We need to talk about this seriously. These taxes are affecting our apparel industry, and we must consider limiting imports from such countries.
“When Donald Trump speaks on this, it becomes a system that pushes poorer countries into further poverty. One statement comes from the IMF, and another contradicts it. We are not even purchasing goods from America anymore. Unfortunately, our foreign ministry is not addressing this matter.”
Referring to recent developments, he added:
“We heard on March 8 that some answers have now been received. In 2016, we regained the GSP+ concession, but they introduced amendments. Even now, there is no clear answer. Officials from the relevant countries are expected to visit Sri Lanka soon.
This government came to power saying they would abolish the Parate Execution Law. Now, they are re-implementing it. Banks are reportedly applying stricter regulations in Sri Lanka, and some individuals are spreading wild misinformation. It’s disappointing that the Election Commissioner delayed stopping the distribution of election handouts. This should not be limited to the election period—essential goods must be provided to people at competitive, reduced prices on a daily basis.”
On international diplomacy and trade, the MP commented:
“When the Indian Prime Minister visits, we must take full advantage of the opportunity. If we act wisely, we stand to gain. Our foreign policy should be one of friendship with all nations.
It is not the time to talk about Adani. We need to focus on our own responsibilities here. We must evaluate situations proactively, not wait until we fall. I’ve heard in Parliament that ships have already arrived at the port. There’s no point in blaming the government when the files have already reached us. We should have acted earlier.
Other countries have prepared in advance. Donald Trump is working to pressure the entire world. We should not introduce laws that destabilize the country. If we politicize everything, we’ll accomplish nothing.”
Karunanayake also spoke about his support for the United National Party (UNP) and criticized internal party dynamics:
“We are working to earn the trust of the people we know. I support the UNP members, though the party has become fragmented due to two powerful figures. Some members are hesitant to attend meetings because they know I support Ranil. The people will ultimately provide the answer. We are moving towards a broad political alliance.”
He concluded with a jab at political opportunism:
“It’s laughable that those who once rejected the Sampur project are now celebrating Modi’s presence. This journey is not about Ravi or Ranil—it’s about taking the right path. If we don’t, we will remain hungry like two unharvested rice fields.”
