Marikkar equates CBSL salary hike to plundering by Rajapaksa regime

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP S.M. Marikkar yesterday drew parallels between the recent salary increase obtained by Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) employees and what he termed as the laundering of the nation by the Rajapaksa regime, citing their involvement in resolving the country’s prolonged conflict.

The parliament debate heated up after Marikkar questioned the Government on the recent CBSL salary increase, pressing the Prime Minister to present the specifics of the raises granted in parliament.

In response, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena tabled the requested information, presenting a comprehensive breakdown of the salary increments, detailing the specific amounts and percentage increases for each position within the CBSL.

Gunawardena said the gross salary of the lowest ranking employee, an Office Assistant - Grade 1, at the Central Bank, has been raised by 29.53% reaching Rs. 188,827 and that the gross salary of the Deputy Governor has surged by 76.97% to Rs. 1,728,419. Accordingly, it was revealed that salary increases ranging from 29% - 89% had been granted to CBSL employees. 

Additionally, the Prime Minister noted that CBSL employees are eligible for housing loans, vehicle loans, welfare loans, and medical benefits. 

The Prime Minister highlighted that the responsibilities of the CBSL have notably escalated in light of the recent economic crisis, coupled with an increase in staff departures. Consequently, the remaining staff members have had their workload increased, making it imperative to retain them by implementing the salary increase, he explained. 

“This is similar to the Rajapaksas plundering the country under the guise of victory in the war. From 2018 to 2020, the CBSL saw only a 28% increase in salaries,” he remarked.

Marikkar pointed out that such substantial increases in CBSL salaries are likely aimed at offsetting the newly imposed PAYE tax. “What if other Government employees demand similar raises? It will significantly inflate the Government’s recurring expenses,” he cautioned.