Speaking at a recent media conference held by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Senior Professor Prasanna Perera, a representative of the party, commented on Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa’s position regarding the loan relief Sri Lanka received from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
When questioned by a journalist on whether he was defending Mr. Premadasa and suggesting that his statements were correct, Professor Perera responded:
“What he says is practically seen to be correct, isn’t it? Some time ago, when he spoke about sanitary napkins, he was ridiculed. Yet today, everyone acknowledges that he was right. He has the ability to identify problems in advance and propose solutions. Social discourse alone is not sufficient. As a university professor, I feel it is important to highlight these discussions.”
Professor Perera shared his personal experience with Mr. Premadasa in high-level discussions:
“I have had extensive discussions with him. Recently, there was a meeting attended by the IMF, in which I was also invited, alongside two other university professors. At that meeting, he raised the issue of ETFs and EPFs – essentially, provident funds of ordinary working-class citizens – highlighting that they were not treated fairly compared to investors in bonds or the primary market during domestic debt restructuring. He advocated for a smaller haircut for the working-class funds than for those invested in bonds.”
He added:
“One thing I noticed was his boldness in addressing the IMF. While many leaders accept IMF directives without question, he was not afraid to challenge them. He presented data accurately, informing the officials and stating, ‘I would like to renegotiate this with you if given a mandate.’ Peter Brewer and other IMF representatives present agreed with his position, saying, ‘Yes, we are ready to discuss it with a mandate.’ This is an experience few in society are aware of.”
Professor Perera emphasized Mr. Premadasa’s humanitarian approach:
“He shows a human side in his leadership, prioritizing the common people. I was impressed by his courage in presenting economic data to the IMF in defense of working-class citizens. Unfortunately, many in the country are unaware of this. That is why I am keen to highlight the true Sajith Premadasa, rather than the perception often questioned in public discourse.”
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Sajith Premadasa Praised for Bold Stance on IMF Loan Relief, Says SJB Senior Professor
Senior Professor Prasanna Perera, representing the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, highlighted Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa’s proactive and humanitarian approach during a recent media conference. Professor Perera noted Premadasa’s ability to identify problems early, citing his past advocacy on sanitary napkins, and praised his boldness in negotiating with the IMF to protect the interests of ordinary working-class citizens.
“While many leaders accept IMF directives without question, Premadasa presented accurate data and requested renegotiations to safeguard provident funds and ETF investments of the common people. This courage and foresight often go unnoticed by the public,” said Professor Perera.
