Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has sharply criticized the National People’s Power (NPP) government for signing agreements with Indian and Chinese companies previously labeled as “corrupt” by the NPP while in opposition.
Speaking at a media briefing, Rajapaksa expressed his sarcasm toward President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent diplomatic achievements in India and China. He highlighted the apparent contradiction in the NPP’s stance, pointing out their earlier opposition to these companies and their current collaboration with them.
“During the previous administration, these Indian and Chinese companies showed interest in investing in Sri Lanka. At the time, the NPP loudly criticized them as controversial and corrupt. Now, the same government is signing foreign direct investment agreements with these companies and taking credit for it. This is blatant hypocrisy,” Rajapaksa stated.
The MP further demanded clarity from the government on its foreign policy, describing it as vague and lacking direction. He also urged President Dissanayake to address the public on why the NPP opposed these companies in the past, tarnishing their reputations, and why their stance has now shifted.
Rajapaksa’s comments come in the wake of President Dissanayake’s high-profile visits to India and China, where agreements on foreign investments were signed to bolster Sri Lanka’s economy. The apparent shift in the NPP’s approach has sparked debate and criticism, particularly from opposition figures like Rajapaksa, who accuse the ruling party of inconsistency and opportunism in its policies.
