Sarvajana Balaya Leader and Opposition Parliamentarian Dilith Jayaweera expressed concern that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme appears to prioritise creditors’ interests over the broader needs of the country. “There is little visible evidence of a clear pathway towards sustainable economic growth or a comprehensive strategy for national wealth creation,” he said.

He made these remarks during a meeting with visiting IMF officials, presided over by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Dr. Rizvie Salih, where Party Leaders were present.

“During the discussion, I conveyed the public perception that the current IMF-backed programme has imposed a significant economic burden on ordinary citizens, particularly the average Sri Lankan. Many feel that the cost of adjustment is being disproportionately borne by the people. When IMF Mission Chief for Sri Lanka Evan Papageorgiou noted that the programme had been successfully initiated by the previous Government and that the current administration is demonstrating improved fiscal discipline, I responded that this is precisely the issue. The public had expected a Government that claims to follow ‘so-called Marxist policies’ to deliver meaningful relief. Instead, the current approach is perceived as placing additional strain on the average citizen.”

MPs Ravi Karunanayake, M.L.A.M. Hizbullah, and Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna were also present at the meeting.