UTV | COLOMBO -Leader of the United National Party Former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says the country’s economy must be strengthened to provide relief to the general public.
The Former Prime Minister noted that several sectors including tourism, apparel and retail, have been severely impacted due to the coronavirus crisis.
Speaking during a public gathering in Colombo today, UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe said the public has been struggling to carry-out day-to-day activities due to economic hardships.
The UNP Leader noted that due to job losses and lack of monetary activity, the household economy is affected severely and thereby burdening all Sri Lankans.
Commenting on the present administration’s COVID-19 crisis mitigation program, the Former Prime Minister said the incumbent government failed to take proactive measures, although several countries took precautionary measures prior to the arrival of the coronavirus and provided relief to business owners to revive the economies following the reduction in infections within their respective jurisdiction.
Former Premier Wickremesinghe urged the government to provide relief to business owners, self-employed persons, those engaged in various jobs and the rural public in order for them to engage in daily operations without distress.
The Former Prime Minister proposed to introduce an installment scheme to repay the utilities bills, interest free loan schemes and additional monetary grant, so that the public will be able to recommence spending on businesses and thereby reviving local economies.
The UNP Leader said a systemic approach is required to overcome economic troubles during the post-COVID period.
The Former Prime Minister said the UNP has always strengthened the country’s economy after regaining power through stringent plans and efficient implementation of programs.
Former PM Ranil Wickremesinghe recalled that immediately after Sri Lanka gained independence, in 1977, 2002 and in 2015, UNP led administrations stabilized and strengthened the country’s economy.
The Former PM said the UNP has the track record, the experience and strategy to revive the country’s economy.
Speaking to voters, UNP Leader Wickremesinghe stressed that he is not prepared to make false promises to the public and noted that the income disparity and the depletion of foreign exchange reserves must be addressed before launching major programs.
The Former Premier said the UNP is prepared to establish a standalone government and address the financial issues including the debt repayment concerns.
He said the household economy must be strengthened first so that the people will be able to live and then will focus on other matters.
Therefore, Former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe requested the general public to place the trust in the symbol of the elephant and vote in a UNP-led government at the August General Election.