Janaraja Peramuna leader Patali Champika Ranawaka has accused the government of ineffectiveness in addressing critical national issues such as providing rice, coconuts, and medicine, as well as reducing oil and electricity taxes. He described the administration as “hesitant, stumbling, and whining,” alleging that it is attempting to gain popularity through politically motivated actions instead of addressing pressing issues.
Speaking about the recent arrest of former Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa and his wife over allegations related to the misuse of flood aid in 2014, Ranawaka claimed the move was a calculated political act. According to him, this arrest comes at a time when political parties like the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party are reorganizing and working towards building a robust opposition alliance.
Ranawaka criticized the government’s failure to address key promises, such as prosecuting those responsible for the bond scam, the 2022 economic crisis, and the e-visa scam that caused a financial loss of Rs. 320 million. He remarked that instead of fulfilling these commitments, the government has chosen to target political opponents.
“The arrest of Mr. Anura Yapa and his wife is politically motivated. This attack comes amidst the reorganization of opposition forces, which the government fears. They are failing to deliver on their promises to the people, such as providing basic necessities, reducing taxes, or taking action against those who bankrupted the nation,” Ranawaka stated.
He also criticized the current administration for its reliance on what he described as “secret police” tactics, likening them to the Cheka police of the Bolshevik Soviet Union, which suppressed dissent and hunted down opponents.
Ranawaka warned of mounting public unrest if the government continues to sidestep real issues and avoid holding accountable those responsible for past economic mismanagement. “Go after the real criminals. Enforce the law on those who bankrupted the country. If this does not happen, we will mobilize strong public protests. This is just the beginning,” he added.
The former Minister also pointed out that despite four months in power, the administration has yet to address pressing issues or act on promises of justice. He concluded by urging the government to act independently and warned that both the people and the global community are observing its actions closely.
