Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stated in Parliament yesterday (17) that at a time when the country faces a series of grave challenges, the President or the Prime Minister should have made a statement to Parliament and the people on how to confront the existing crises, yet, instead of doing so, they are merely offering advice on how to prepare for such crises.
He noted the US and Israel jointly launched strikes on Iran in June 2025, and that while strategic plans should have been prepared in anticipation of those strikes, the current Government has no scenario planning whatsoever. He pointed out the Government's lack of scenario planning is demonstrated by the way it handled cyclone Ditwah, and that at a time when the country faced such a serious situation, the Government decided not to convene Parliament.
He also recalled that at a previous Parliamentary session, the Opposition had warned that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz would pose challenges to the country and urged the Government to prepare plans and explore alternative methods. At that time, the Foreign Affairs Minister had stated the closure of the Strait would not be an obstacle to Sri Lanka's oil supply. He questioned whether the same claim can be repeated today.
He further stated that on that very same day, the Opposition had advised the Government to engage in negotiations with Russia and move towards necessary agreements to secure oil for the country, given that the US had lifted sanctions on Russia for 30 days, yet, instead of heeding those words, the Government only met with the Russian Ambassador a week later. He said the Government's refusal to accept good proposals from the Opposition and its failure to listen to truthful statements reflects its arrogance, adding that an arrogant administration has no longevity.
He further stated that when energy and electricity security concerns were raised, the Government pointed out that other countries are also affected — but, it was not US President Donald Trump who ordered coal for the Norochcholai Power Plant; it was the current Government. Due to the inferior coal procured by this Government, electricity generation has fallen short by 130 MW on 13 March, 135 MW on 14 March, 132 MW on 15 March, and 148 MW on Monday (16). He explained that as a result of this shortfall, electricity has to be purchased from diesel power plants, and that supplying fuel to those plants causes fuel shortages for the public, leaving people further distressed.