2017 has not been good for Sri Lanka: Survey

Saturday, 16 December 2017 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The latest monthly poll conducted by research firm Kantar TNS for business magazine LMD reveals that a majority (70%) of citizens view 2017 as not being a good year for the country.

Respondents cite ‘natural disasters’ as a cause for their displeasure while noting that 2017 has also been ‘bad in terms of the economy’, LMD reports in its December edition. It adds that two-thirds (66%) of the survey sample disagree with any notion of governance having been strengthened this year, while 20% agree and 14% sit on the fence.

Sentiment regarding the economy is also in negative territory. LMD notes that 77% of those polled state that conditions have not been robust. They point to ‘the increase in the cost of living’, ‘fluctuations in the economy’ and ‘the increase in taxes.’

Asked whether corruption has been less prevalent than in the past, 26% agree, 53% disagree and the rest say they are unsure. The naysayers – who form the majority – are firm in their belief that ‘there’s no reduction in corruption and fraud’.

According to LMD, only 23% of respondents agree that the development agenda has taken off. More than half (55%) oppose this view and the rest (22%) are unsure.

Citizens point to good governance, controlling the cost of living, strengthening the economy, stopping corruption, fast-tracking development and reducing poverty as measures to ensure a more prosperous 2018.

LMD’s publisher, Media Services, says the December edition of the pioneering business magazine has been released to leading supermarkets and bookstores in Colombo and the outstations.

Its cover story features Bollywood superstar Jacqueline Fernandez, who LMD nominated as its Sri Lankan of the Year for 2017 (for the full story log on to www.LMD.lk).