Independent presidential candidate Ranil Wickremesinghe has criticized the economic policy proposed by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, asserting that it could lead to a significant devaluation of the Sri Lankan rupee. Wickremesinghe made these comments during the ‘Puluwan Sri Lanka’ conference in Puttalam.
Wickremesinghe responded to accusations from Dissanayake, who had alleged that Wickremesinghe was running a smear campaign against him. “I am not engaged in any smear campaign,” Wickremesinghe said. “I have only pointed out that implementing Anura Kumara’s proposals would likely breach the agreement with the IMF. If these policies are enacted, it could result in the rupee weakening to 500 per dollar.”
Wickremesinghe expressed concern about the impact of Dissanayake’s economic proposals on the public, questioning their feasibility and effectiveness. “Are they prepared to bear the consequences of these policies?” he asked. “We are not here to engage in mudslinging. We want to know if Dissanayake and his team have the capability to manage the economy effectively.”
He highlighted his own efforts to stabilize the economy, stating, “I have worked hard to lighten the burden of life for the people. The economy is improving, and we have taken steps such as lifting the ban on car imports due to strengthened foreign reserves.”
Wickremesinghe’s remarks underscore his commitment to economic stability and his critique of his opponent’s proposals.
