By Rathindra Kuruwita
The National People’s Power (NPP) government must be cautious in its dealings with both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and India, as both entities pose a threat to Sri Lanka’s economic and political sovereignty, warned Pubudu Jayagoda, Education Secretary of the Frontline Socialist Party (FSP). Speaking to The Island yesterday, Jayagoda expressed concerns over the impact of the IMF agreement and India’s increasing involvement in the country’s affairs.
“The conditions imposed by the IMF have stifled our economic development and created significant hardships for the people,” Jayagoda said. “On the other hand, India’s continued interference in Sri Lanka’s internal matters is gradually eroding our economic and political sovereignty.”
Jayagoda also criticised the government for its narrow focus on corruption, which he argued has been primarily attributed to politicians. “It’s not just the politicians; many bureaucrats and powerful businessmen were deeply involved in corruption. The government must not lose sight of these groups,” he asserted.
In recent years, there has been growing public scrutiny of corrupt officials and business elites, Jayagoda noted. He stressed that the new government should have acted swiftly against these individuals, rather than giving them the chance to regroup and regain influence.
“For instance, some of the Ministry secretaries appointed by the NPP government have faced corruption allegations. Furthermore, the NPP has allowed some individuals appointed by Gotabaya Rajapaksa to return to influential positions. One example is the appointment of the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) Chairman, who previously held the same post under the Rajapaksa administration as well,” Jayagoda pointed out.
Jayagoda’s remarks reflect the growing concerns within certain political factions about the NPP government’s approach to governance and its dealings with external powers.
from The Island https://ift.tt/ISE9YUi
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