PM bets on coalition continuity

• At Singapore investor forum says current coalition although challenging has reached agreement on key reforms
• Admits 10 Feb. LG polls sent out a strong message over inaction on certain changes promised
• Predicts whoever comes to power next will stay on coalition course

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday in Singapore dismissed concerns over coalition politics and assured investors that although a governing coalition was challenging it also brought stability, though he admitted greater action was required to deliver on broader promises. 

The Premier made these observations during a Question and Answer session at the Invest Sri Lanka forum in Singapore attended by over 300 fund managers and investors based in the city-state. In response to a question as to how challenging it was to push ahead with reforms in the Coalition Government, the Premier said a coalition government between two major political parties was always challenging but the plus point was it brought about stability. He also said there was agreement on many of the reforms. 

“Once the current Unity Government is over whoever comes to power next it is very unlikely there would be a change (in the option for a coalition government),” Wickremesinghe added.



However, he admitted that the 10 February Local Government elections delivered “a barometer and a very strong message that the Unity Government must be more active.” 

“It was a barometer that the changes we promised hadn’t taken place faster enough,” he added. 

The Premier noted that LG polls took place after the cost of living was very high and amidst a fertiliser shortage whilst during the first two years of the Coalition Government it focused on stabilising the economy and the country also saw floods and droughts.

He said that the Government was committed to be more progressive and action-oriented in ensuring higher economic growth with improved exports and foreign direct investments.