The Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB) has a clear plan and vision to develop the country, supported by a team of highly skilled members capable of implementing these strategies. The party is committed to working with the President not for narrow political gains, but to fulfill the aspirations of the 22 million people of the nation, said Sajith Premadasa, leader of the SJB. He emphasized the need for consensus-driven development rather than divisive rivalry, calling it the need of the hour.
Premadasa made these remarks while addressing a public meeting organized by Ruwanwella co-organizer Nihal Farooq.
During the presidential election, the SJB presented a comprehensive program to uplift the country. Central to this plan is the recovery from the current economic crisis through sustainable and robust economic growth. Premadasa underscored that this growth must be export-driven to generate foreign exchange, adding that through such efforts, the country can prosper.
He further highlighted the importance of strengthening key sectors, including tourism, services, and agriculture. Premadasa stressed that without substantial economic growth, the country cannot progress. To achieve this, he pointed out that increasing the disposable income of the population is crucial, and one way to do this is through the SJB’s five-planting program, which promotes exports and tangible on-the-ground implementation.
Premadasa also called for a revolution in the country’s manufacturing industries to boost production, create jobs, and enhance sources of income. He noted that the current cost of living is unbearable, poverty is rising, and no effective solutions are in place.
Addressing concerns about economic mismanagement, Premadasa warned that if the situation continues unchecked, the country risks falling deeper into crisis. He reminded the audience that Sri Lanka faces significant debt repayments starting in 2028 and stressed the need to expand the economy and strengthen foreign reserves to meet these obligations.
Touching on the recent 5th-grade scholarship examination, Premadasa criticized the inefficiency of the current administration, saying that even the basic task of conducting an exam was mishandled, leaving parents of the students with false hope.
Premadasa reiterated that urgent reforms are needed to steer the country away from further decline.
