Namal criticises government's stance on assets

Assets are considered social capital when held by those in government, but labelled as theft when belonging to the opposition or public servants, claims SLPP National Organiser and MP Namal Rajapaksa.

He made these remarks while addressing the media following a religious program at the Kelaniya Maha Vihara. Rajapaksa stated he is currently studying this concept of "social capital," noting that members of the ruling party and the JVP seemingly categorise their wealth differently than that of their political rivals.

The MP recalled past allegations regarding Lamborghinis, golden horses, and $18 billion allegedly taken to Uganda, which he characterised as false claims made on opposition stages. He shifted focus to the present, alleging that the President is directly involved in a low-quality coal scam. He claimed the President appointed a close associate as the relevant minister to oversee the coal tender, comparing it to previous large-scale fertiliser tenders.

Addressing past governance, he noted that his administration provided financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic and worked to prevent social disasters. He stated that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa prioritised defeating the LTTE over receiving international accolades like the Nobel Peace Prize. He further defended their record on agriculture and their decision to step back during the "Aragalaya" protests to avoid further social instability.

The MP concluded by accusing the current government of making heartless decisions and forcing the public to bear the financial burden of administrative corruption through increased electricity and fuel prices.