Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has accused President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of presenting what he called a “bag of lies” instead of a genuine Budget for 2026, claiming it was filled with false promises and misleading statements aimed at deceiving the public.
Speaking at the opening of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) main office in Horana, Premadasa said the Budget presented by the President — his second since assuming office — was not a plan for a prosperous nation but a carefully crafted political show.
He urged the public to compare the promises and policies in the Budget with the pledges made by the NPP-led government during the election campaign, stating that there was a clear mismatch between the rhetoric and reality.
“Though the President presented it with a smile and calm voice, this Budget is nothing but a bundle of lies — full of deception and dishonesty aimed at extending the government’s survival while the people are left helpless,” Premadasa said.
He further alleged that the government was functioning under the “Goebbels theory,” repeating lies until they appear as truth. “This Budget offers no vision or program to address the 40–50% poverty level in the country. The living standards of 2019 have not yet been restored,” he added.
Premadasa also criticized the government’s stance on the IMF, saying it had become “a servant to the IMF” and failed to fulfill its promises, including reducing electricity tariffs by 33% and providing 35,000 graduate jobs.
“The government said it was negotiating a new IMF agreement, but in reality, it simply approved the old one. Today, the cost of living remains high, and there’s no sign of economic relief,” he said.
He added that the government lacks a clear plan to attract foreign investment and is merely using “decorative words and empty speeches” to hold onto power.
“The SJB will not engage in political gambling to seize power through chaos. Our mission is to build a strong, credible political wall that can truly rebuild the nation,” Premadasa affirmed.
He also noted that many skilled professionals are leaving the country due to a lack of development and opportunities, while the SJB continues to seek international partnerships to help Sri Lanka — not for personal or political gain.
Among those present at the Horana event were SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara, Ajith P. Perera, Jagath Withana, Charith Abeysinghe, P.D. Aberathna, and Kithsiri Kahatapitiya. (Newswire)
