Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has urged the government to reduce the sharply increased prices of gas, fuel, and electricity bills and provide a relief package to the public.
In a video message, he accused the government of failing to understand the hardships faced by ordinary citizens, noting that the sudden price hikes have placed millions under unbearable pressure.
Premadasa pointed out that uncertainty remains over whether the country’s gas requirements are being met by suppliers, while rapid price increases have left people vulnerable.
He also highlighted concerns raised in Parliament about disruptions to global fuel and gas supplies due to the Middle East conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which the government initially dismissed.
Citing examples from countries such as Australia, New Zealand, the UK, South Korea, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Egypt, Premadasa said governments worldwide are offering relief measures to their citizens.
He stressed that Sri Lanka’s government should follow suit by introducing a special economic relief package, targeting the poor and middle class rather than the wealthy.
Premadasa further pledged that the opposition would support such a package if presented in Parliament, provided it genuinely benefits the people.
He added that since the Treasury has reported surplus funds and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has acknowledged improved revenue, the government should use these resources to reduce gas, fuel, and electricity prices and ensure social justice.
“The government’s responsibility is not to burden the people but to help them live,” Premadasa said, calling for immediate action to provide relief to struggling households. (Newswire)