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UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena says Sri Lankans are now paying the price for removing Ranil Wickremesinghe, claiming only leaders who understand global behavior can protect the country from international economic pressure like the US export tax.
United National Party (UNP) Chairman Vajira Abeywardena has sparked political debate with his remarks blaming the public for Sri Lanka’s current economic struggles, particularly the 30% U.S. tax on exports. He stated that Sri Lanka is now suffering because President Ranil Wickremesinghe, a leader who understood global political behavior, was forced out before his vision could be fulfilled.
Speaking to the media after inaugurating the Esala Zone of Karagoda Sri Deva Rakkhitha Viharaya in Yakkalamulla, Abeywardena emphasized the importance of having leaders who can foresee international trends and act preemptively.
“Today people talk proudly about how the U.S. reduced the tariff from 44% to 30%, but honestly, it’s something to be ashamed of,” he said. “This wouldn’t have happened under a leader who knew how the world worked.”
The UNP Chairman further claimed that President Wickremesinghe had accurately predicted shifting global dynamics, but that his path was disrupted by domestic political pressures and public misunderstanding.
“The public removed a man who could diplomatically resolve such issues. Now the country is facing the consequences,” he added. “We need state leaders who understand international behavior, not populists.”
Abeywardena’s remarks come amid growing criticism over Sri Lanka’s handling of trade negotiations with the United States, which led to the imposition of a 30% tariff on Sri Lankan exports starting August 1. The opposition has accused the government of failing to secure concessions, while the UNP is defending its former leader’s foresight and diplomacy.
As the debate intensifies, Abeywardena’s comments have reignited conversation over Sri Lanka’s leadership choices, foreign policy direction, and who is best positioned to navigate the island through an increasingly complex global landscape.
