Former minister Patali Champika Ranawaka has launched a blistering critique of the government, alleging economic mismanagement, hidden debts and political fear while warning that the country is paying a heavy price for costly borrowing and policy contradictions.
Former Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka has delivered a sharp critique of the current administration, claiming the government is operating under what he described as three powerful fears that are shaping its decisions and political behaviour.
Speaking at a media briefing, Ranawaka said the government appears gripped by the fear of truth being revealed, the fear of its own incompetence and the fear of the abilities of others. According to him, these pressures are becoming increasingly visible in the contradictions between the promises made before coming to power and the policies now being implemented.
He pointed to several unresolved controversies that, in his view, highlight administrative failures. One example was the investigation into the shipment of 323 containers that became a public issue in January 2025 after illegal drugs known as ice were discovered in two containers. Ranawaka said the investigation remains incomplete and the Finance Ministry report related to the case has still not been accepted.
The former minister also questioned the official explanation given for a nationwide power outage on February 9, 2025. Authorities initially stated that a monkey had entered the Panadura substation and caused the disruption. Ranawaka claimed the real cause was a trip in the Victoria Reservoir system, which he said resulted in losses estimated at around Rs. 660 million.
He further alleged that early warnings issued by the Mahaweli Data Center about Cyclone Dithawa were not handled properly. According to Ranawaka, the sudden nighttime opening of the Polgolla and Kotmale reservoir gates caused extensive damage to lives and property in affected regions.
Turning to the economic situation, Ranawaka criticized the government’s fiscal strategy and borrowing practices. He stated that funds currently held in the treasury had been borrowed at an interest rate of 11.5 percent, creating an annual cost of nearly Rs. 2 billion to maintain. He argued that the government’s capital expenditure management has dropped to historically low levels, reflecting serious policy weakness.
Ranawaka also said many cyclone victims are still living in temporary shelters months after the disaster and accused the authorities of ignoring support offered by voluntary organisations.
He concluded by warning that suppressing capable individuals and political opposition would ultimately backfire.
