Sajith accuses government of using false data for policies

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has stated that the people of Sri Lanka have been deceived on two consecutive occasions, alleging that the country went bankrupt after being misled in 2019, while the decision in 2024 has left the entire society completely paralyzed. He claimed that twenty-two million people, including farmers, fishermen, workers, entrepreneurs, women, and children, are currently living in distress and frustration.

The Opposition Leader made these remarks while addressing a Samagi Jana Balawegaya membership drive meeting held in the Rambewa area of the Medawachchiya constituency in the Anuradhapura district.

He pointed out that according to the Department of Census and Statistics, an amount of 17315 rupees is sufficient for one person to live for thirty days, adding that this survey was also conducted at the district level. He argued that the current administration's policies are built on false data.

Premadasa further claimed that the government is founded on falsehoods and deception. He recalled that during the election campaign, leaders entered paddy fields promising 150 rupees per kilogram of paddy, yet the current price offered is only 120 rupees. He highlighted that the Agriculture Minister himself had stated in Parliament that it costs 137 rupees to produce one kilogram of paddy, demonstrating that the government has failed to fulfill its pledges. He added that promises to reduce electricity bills by 33 percent, provide fuel at the landed cost, and offer a Vitz car for 12 lakh rupees have also not been delivered.