The National People’s Power Leader MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa must give a straightforward answer, indicating clearly if he can or cannot take part in a public debate.
Dissanayake made these comments responding to questions from journalists inquiring if the much-anticipated debate between the opposition leaders will take place.
“He had proposed several dates, I have informed them of the possible dates. The decision to participate in the debate is with him,” Dissanayake said.
The NPP Leader pointed out that the debate has become a controversy only because of a debate among the leaders. “The economic committees of parties frequently face each other during televised debates otherwise,” he said.
Dissanayake also noted that it is futile to debate on economic policies, especially when the supposed economic policy of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has not been accepted by the party leadership.
“A document presented by their economic committee has been rejected by Nalaka Godahewa, one of Sajith Premadasa’s economic advisors. So, what we need to see from Sajith Premadasa first of all, is what their true stance on the economy is,” Dissanayake said.
The NPP Leader said that dissident Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna member Nalaka Godahewa, who is now an ally of the opposition, has completely rejected SJB Economic Committee member Harsha de Silva’s economic blueprint.
“He alleges that this document has not received the endorsement of Sajith. What is the use of Harsha being in possession of such a document? Are we to debate with it? Tell Sajith Premadasa to give a straightforward answer, if he can or cannot take part in the debate, without dodging the question,” Dissanayake told media. (Newswire)