Sajith Exposes Govt's Plans to Raise Electricity Bills

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa expressed his disappointment with the government's failure to fulfill its promises of prosperity and improved living conditions for the people.

Premadasa speaking at the May Day Rally organized by the Samagi Jana Balavegaya pointed out that despite promises to reduce electricity bills, there are now indications that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake plans to increase them after the elections. He revealed that discussions with the IMF have led to a commitment to raise electricity bills in exchange for extended fund facilities.

"Anura Kumara Dissanayake promised a 33% reduction in electricity bills, stating that bills of Rs. 9,000 would be reduced to Rs. 6,000, and bills of Rs. 3,000 would be reduced to Rs. 2,000. We want to ask President Anura Kumara Dissanayake why he is making these false promises," Premadasa said.

He also criticized the government for failing to provide fuel at port prices, as promised, and for the skyrocketing prices of rice, coconuts, and milk powder. "The government cannot even provide salt to the people. This is shameful," he added.

Premadasa also addressed the deteriorating law and order situation in the country, stating that murderers, underworld gangs, and thugs are taking the law into their own hands. "They kill in homes, bedrooms, yards, streets, workplaces—everywhere. Even in courtrooms and in front of judges. Murderers have taken control of law and order in our country; jungle law prevails," he said.

To combat this issue, Premadasa announced plans to establish security committees in every village and town through local government institutions. These committees will work with the police, security forces, government agencies, and law enforcement sectors to restore law and order. "As an opposition party, we pledge to work hand-in-hand with you to achieve this," he concluded.

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) May Day rally came to an unexpected end when the crowd began to disperse after the speech by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa.

Despite efforts by the organizers to retain the audience, the rally concluded prematurely.

Former MP Tushara Idunil addressed the crowd, explaining that the leader had urgent matters to attend to, which necessitated his departure.

He assured the attendees that other prominent speakers, including Ranjith Madduma Bandara and Harsha de Silva, were still present and would continue to address the gathering. He urged the crowd to remain, emphasizing that the event was not yet over.

However, despite these assurances, the rally had to be concluded as the majority of the crowd continued to leave.