IMF confirms no changes to Wickremesinghe-era agreement: Marikkar

Saturday, 30 November 2024 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

SJB MP S.M. Marikkar

Recalls current Govt. portrayed IMF agreement as a destructive policy that would harm the public and promised to overhaul certain terms in favour of the people
Accuses Govt. of fearmongering with exaggerated claims and promises of dramatic changes they failed to fulfil
Says Govt.’s refusal to renegotiate IMF terms has exacerbated public suffering

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP S.M. Marikkar has alleged that representatives of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) confirmed during a recent meeting with SJB leader Sajith Premadasa and party members that the current Government intends to uphold the IMF agreement brokered by former President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s administration, despite contradicting its election promises.

Speaking at a press conference in Colombo yesterday, Marikkar accused the new National People’s Power (NPP) Government of failing to deliver on its campaign pledges to renegotiate the IMF deal. “During the election campaign, the Government portrayed the IMF agreement as a destructive policy that would harm the public. They promised to overhaul the terms in favour of the people. However, it is now evident that they have decided to retain the agreement in its original form,” Marikkar stated.

He criticised the Government’s approach, contrasting it with the SJB’s position. “We proposed a pragmatic strategy, making necessary adjustments while retaining beneficial elements. Instead, the Government engaged in fearmongering, misleading the public with exaggerated claims and promises of dramatic changes they have failed to fulfil,” he said.

Marikkar also highlighted the severe financial strain on citizens caused by measures tied to the IMF agreement. “People are enduring the brunt of higher VAT, soaring water and electricity bills, and increased income taxes. The Government’s refusal to renegotiate these terms has exacerbated the public’s suffering,” he noted.