In light of the current political instability affecting Sri Lanka, MP Rohini Kaviratne has emphasized the crucial role of presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa in stabilizing the economy. Speaking at a series of meetings in Dambulla, Kaviratne outlined the dire financial implications of the upcoming elections and argued for Premadasa’s candidacy as the solution to the country’s economic woes.
Kaviratne highlighted that the cost of holding the presidential election alone is approximately 1,000 crore rupees. With a general election following at an additional cost of over 1,000 crores and a further 1,200 crores needed for local government elections, the total expenditure could exceed 3,200 crore rupees. She criticized the current administration and the potential consequences of not electing a leader with a strong economic team. Kaviratne warned that if the presidency does not go to someone capable of improving the country’s financial situation, Sri Lanka could face a return to severe economic hardship.
She contrasted Sajith Premadasa’s potential presidency with the consequences of an Anura Kumara Dissanayake administration, suggesting that Dissanayake’s policies could lead to further economic decline. Kaviratne expressed concerns that the country might experience another economic collapse similar to what occurred under former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. She emphasized that the country’s financial recovery depends on timely elections and effective governance, which she believes Premadasa’s team is equipped to provide.
Kaviratne also discussed the current economic struggles, including reliance on a $700 million loan from the International Monetary Fund and the ongoing need to service debt to institutions like the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. She warned that if a government without proven economic expertise were to take power, it could lead to a deterioration of the country’s economic situation, resulting in shortages of essential goods and services, including oil, gas, medicine, and fertilizer.
She further criticized potential scenarios where if the JVP led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake comes to power, both the dollar and rupee could suffer, leading to severe economic repercussions. Kaviratne urged voters to support Sajith Premadasa, describing him as the only candidate capable of overcoming the challenges posed by the JVP and ensuring economic stability.
Addressing concerns about support within the Pohottuwa party, Kaviratne encouraged party members to back Premadasa to secure a victory against the JVP. She urged those who previously supported Pohottuwa to join forces with Premadasa, emphasizing the importance of uniting for the future stability of Sri Lanka.
In conclusion, Kaviratne urged supporters to focus on electing a leader who can effectively manage the country’s economic challenges, highlighting Premadasa’s credentials and the risks associated with other candidates.
