Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa on Saturday criticized the government over its latest vehicle taxation policy, claiming that leaders who had once promised to make a Vitz car available for Rs. 1.2 million had now moved to impose an additional 50% tax on vehicles.
Addressing the media after visiting Ven. Magama Mahanama Thero in Tissamaharama, Premadasa said the government must stop making what he described as “ridiculous statements” regarding the impact of the tax and instead manage the economy from the people’s perspective.
He questioned assurances made by the Deputy Finance Minister that vehicle prices would not increase despite the tax changes and said the President, government and its 159 Members of Parliament should take responsibility for the situation.
Premadasa also raised concerns over the depreciation of the Sri Lankan Rupee, claiming it was weakening at a rapid pace against the US dollar and warning that continued depreciation would fuel inflation, increase commodity prices and raise the cost of living.
He said stabilizing the economy required stronger export earnings, growth in tourism, increased foreign remittances and attracting more Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs).
The Opposition Leader further accused the President, Finance Minister and government of lacking a basic understanding of economics and said repeated policy mistakes were placing heavy burdens on the public.
Commenting on global developments, Premadasa said the government should have prepared earlier for economic pressures arising from international conflicts and stressed that relief measures for the public should be strengthened rather than reduced.
He also called for an increase in subsidies, arguing that rising living costs were placing families under pressure and creating difficulties in providing adequate nutrition for children.
Premadasa added that maintaining stronger foreign reserves and controlling the depreciation of the rupee would be essential to meet debt obligations and support the well-being of the public. (Newswire)