President’s Bold Challenge to Candidates: IMF Transparency Talks

News Today: President Challenges Presidential Candidates to Discuss IMF Matters

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has challenged fellow Presidential Candidates Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake to engage in a transparent discussion with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This open debate aims to assess the feasibility of their public promises, allowing citizens to evaluate the truthfulness of their statements.

The President emphasized that revising the existing agreement with the IMF is not a viable option, as it could lead to another economic collapse. He criticized the misleading promises made by Premadasa and Dissanayake regarding reduced prices and lower taxes, highlighting the potential risk of worsening the country’s economic situation. Wickremesinghe called for honesty and transparency to prevent the public from being deceived by false hopes.

President Wickremesinghe acknowledged his desire to lower taxes and reduce the prices of essential goods. However, he stressed that these goals can only be achieved by adhering to the IMF agreement and strengthening the Sri Lankan Rupee. He urged Premadasa and Dissanayake to present any alternative solutions during the proposed IMF discussion.

During the Special Convention of the United National Party (UNP) held at Sirikotha, the President mentioned that altering the agreement with the IMF could result in financial support being withdrawn, potentially bringing the country back to its previous economic struggles. He warned that restarting discussions with the IMF would take months, which is impractical for the nation’s financial stability.