Opposition Leader Calls for Utility Price Reductions and Public Relief Package

In Hambantota, following visits to the Yodakandiya Bodhi Maha Viharaya, Naga Maha Viharaya, and Sithulpawwa Magul Maha Viharaya, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa called on the government to reduce the prices of fuel, gas, medicines, food, and fertilizer to provide relief to the public. He stated that the rising cost of living has left many people in a vulnerable situation, despite public expectations for the President and government to address the issue.

In Parliament, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa responded to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's statement, accusing the government of 38 days of inaction and claiming that sustained protests by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) compelled authorities to announce a public relief package. While acknowledging the provision of relief, Premadasa criticized the government for its delayed response, stating that the opposition had urged for relief for weeks. He also cited past unfulfilled promises to victims of the 'Dithwa cyclone' as an example of the government's failure to deliver on pledges, which led to public protests.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa questioned the government in Parliament regarding its unfulfilled election promise to provide fuel at the landing price, requesting a detailed report on fuel import, landing, and transport costs. He also sought clarification on fuel security and management measures amidst the global war situation. Separately, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Sujith Sanjaya Perera criticized the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) / National People's Power (NPP) government for significantly increasing electricity and gas prices, accusing them of hypocrisy given their past protests against similar hikes.