Sri Lanka saw its largest debt repayment in 2025, according to Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Minister Upali Pannilage.

Speaking at an awareness program for community development council representatives in Kurunegala, the Minister said that while many had claimed the biggest repayment would fall in 2028, the government in 2025 settled a debt installment of USD 3,900 million. 

By contrast, he noted, the repayment due in 2028 amounts to only USD 3.2 million.

He further explained that despite spending between USD 2,100 and 2,200 million on vehicle imports in 2025, the government was able to record a surplus of USD 1,700 million. 

This surplus was achieved because out of the USD 29,300 million earned that year, only about USD 27,600 million was spent. (Newswire)

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A Quo Warranto application has been filed against Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Professor Upali Pannilage, seeking his disqualification as an MP.

The application was filed by public interest litigant Oshala Herath at the Court of Appeal, stating that Prof. Upali Pannilage had been appointed as a Member of Parliament under the National People’s Power (NPP) National List and was appointed a Cabinet Minister while being an officer in a public corporation.

The petitioner points out that Minister Upali Pannilage was serving as an officer of the University of Ruhuna, which is a public corporation, making him hold a contract and interest in the contract made by or on behalf of the state. 

Pointing out that the Constitution of Sri Lanka bars individuals who hold any interest in public contracts from election as a Member of Parliament, the petitioner added that it is evident that Minister Upali Pannilage is disqualified to be a Member of Parliament. (Newswire)

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