Patali Champika Ranawaka, Leader of the United Republican Front (Eksath Janaraja Peramuna), engaged in an insightful interview with the Sunday Observer, shedding light on the party’s new program and addressing a gamut of critical issues concerning the nation.
Q: Could you provide an overview of the new program recently presented by your political party?
A: On February 14, our party introduced a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing critical issues facing our nation. The primary focus of this program revolves around enhancing Government revenue without resorting to additional taxes or Value Added Tax (VAT).
We have outlined various strategies to tackle pressing concerns such as the scarcity of foreign currency, shortages of essential medicines, the exodus of medical professionals, challenges in education including financial barriers hindering children’s access to schools, and transportation issues affecting teachers and students. Additionally, the plan delves into proposals for reducing electricity bills and lowering the price of fossil fuels.
Q: Are you suggesting that if this program is implemented, the country could be back to normality within three years?
A: Yes, indeed. This three-year program is imperative due to the looming debt repayment obligations starting from 2028. Failure to adhere to such a structured plan significantly heightens the risk of national bankruptcy. Our stance regarding proposals from financial institutions, Governmental initiatives, constitutional matters including the Presidency and separation of powers, is firmly centreed on laying the groundwork for a robust and formalised governance framework leading up to the next national elections.
Q: Some economic experts argue that the country is actually not on the brink of bankruptcy. What is your response to that?
A: It is simple. If one cannot pay off their debts, they are essentially bankrupt. On April 12, 2022, in diplomatic parlance, it was stated that our nation was incapable of meeting its debt obligations.
That [defaulting on loans], by any measure, is tantamount to bankruptcy. In fact, according to a global ranking, we have been categorised as being in a state of bankruptcy. This predicament has even led to legal action against us in an American Court. These are stark realities that cannot be overlooked or sugar-coated.
Q: The country’s economy has shown some growth under the current President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Are you suggesting he should not be given another chance?
A: The sentiment among the populace is shifting. While the Government may tout economic growth, discontent is brewing, and the people are clamouring for change.
The prevailing anger is palpable, evident in the surge of scathing critiques and venomous verses directed at the administration. Our focus, however, lies in fostering optimism and progress for the nation. Despite some improvements since 2022, the burden on the public remains substantial. It is doubtful whether they will grant another mandate to the current administration given the prevailing dissatisfaction.
Q: The Opposition says the Government is further burdening the people while striving to rebuild the economy. How do you respond?
A: The economic downturn has inflicted significant hardships on every individual, resulting in a loss even for people who earn Rs.100,000, leave alone lower income earners. With personal expenses soaring equivalently, the burden on the populace has become untenable.
Q: It is reported that the amount of uncollected tax due to tax collecting agencies, including the Excise and Customs Departments, exceeds the anticipated revenue from VAT. What solution does a Government headed by your party propose to address this issue?
A: Indeed, the discrepancy in tax collection is a pressing concern. We have initiated measures to bolster Excise duty collection, only to be hindered by bureaucratic hurdles, particularly from the Ministry of Finance. Despite uncovering over Rs.1 billion in uncollected revenue, our efforts have been stymied.
The crux of the matter lies in the flawed tax collection system. If the Ministry of Finance adheres to the procedures outlined by the Ways and Means Committee, which could potentially recoup over one lakh crore rupees in uncollected taxes, there would be no need to rely so heavily on VAT. However, political pressures and bureaucratic inefficiencies impede progress in this regard.
Q: You recently alleged that it was the Opposition that prevented the Chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means from assuming office. Can you elaborate on this accusation?
A: Yes, indeed. It was not the Government but the Opposition that thwarted my appointment as the Chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means.
Despite the onus being on them to submit the nomination, they failed to do so. This obstructionism stems from individuals involved in nefarious activities, including the fabrication of drug-related stickers, illicit money laundering, and clandestine alcohol production. Those who we have exposed are orchestrating these machinations behind the scenes.
Q: You alleged that Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa is dominating Parliamentary proceedings with a one-man show, allowing no room for others in the Opposition to speak. Can you elaborate on this accusation?
A: Absolutely. Recently, the situation in Parliament has been dire, with members restricted to speaking for a mere four to five minutes per week. People are asking me and many other Opposition members as to why we are not speaking in Parliament anymore. It has become apparent that Parliamentary sessions have devolved into a one-man show, largely facilitated by the Speaker’s failure to manage session time effectively.
During the recent Policy Statement address by President Wickremesinghe, Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella abruptly left the Chamber, setting a tone of discord at an important moment. Subsequently, during the ensuing debate on the Policy Statement (throne speech), despite being assured of speaking time, my allocated time was later revoked without explanation.
Upon querying MP Kiriella, I was informed that Opposition Leader Premadasa, without any consultation, had instructed not to allow speeches by MPs who had not stood up or walked away in protest during President Wickremesinghe’s address. This unilateral decision-making, disregarding the diversity of political affiliations, is deeply concerning. After all, we are a separate party. We should have been informed by a telephone call or by text at least.
Q: This means that there is an attempt to undermine those who do not toe the line of the Opposition Leader?
A: There could be people who blindly follow certain political leaders. We are not like that. We have a backbone. We will walk upright behind anyone who upholds the people’s struggle. We are prepared to give leadership to such a struggle.
However, I should stress one thing. If someone thinks that our journey can be stopped by cutting our names from the speeches list, that will not work. They will not succeed with these “one man shows”. After all, they bankrupted all the institutions that came under their Ministries when they were in power.
We were not led to this position by our fathers or relatives. It is evident that certain factions within Parliament are attempting to stifle dissent and control the narrative through such coercive measures.
However, we refuse to succumb to such tactics. We remain committed to our principles and the democratic process, undeterred by attempts to dictate our actions. After all, we are here in this position not by familial lineage but by the will of the people and the strength of our convictions.
Translated by Dinuli Francisco
