Efficient mechanisms needed for tax collection:
Responsible approach to Governance essential:
Sri Lanka must attract new investments:
In an interview with the Sunday Observer, MP Anura Priyadarshana Yapa says that while the Government is making discernible efforts to mitigate the economic crisis, it should aim to rely more on direct taxes rather than indirect ones for enhanced revenue generation.
MP Yapa also feels that the Online Safety Bill needs further amendments to ensure that the freedom of expression is safeguarded. He also calls for an end to the culture of political promises, most of which are not fulfilled in the end.
Excerpts from the interview:
Q:How would you assess the current Government’s direction?
A: This is an exceptionally challenging period, affecting both the public and the Government. We are collectively confronting a significant economic crisis, and there are discernible efforts by the Government to address and mitigate the situation.
Q:What measures would you propose to alleviate the hardships faced by the people during this economic crisis?
A: Acknowledging the complexity of the situation, one viable approach could be enhancing revenue generation. Rather than relying heavily on indirect taxes, there should be an emphasis on improving the system of direct taxation. Encouraging those who have not contributed to the tax base to become taxpayers is essential. Using modern technical tools for efficient tax collection, as done in more advanced countries, could be a strategic step in this direction.
Improving the effectiveness of institutions like the Excise Department, Customs, and the Inland Revenue Department is essential for boosting the country’s rightful tax revenue. The prevalence of misdeeds and inefficiencies in these agencies contributes to a substantial loss in Government revenue. By addressing these issues, we can create a scenario that not only enhances revenue collection but also provides relief to the people. For instance, if income levels rise, there may be an opportunity to consider reducing the Value Added Tax (VAT) to approximately 10 percent, offering economic relief to the public.
Q:Shouldn’t we prioritise a substantial boost to the local economy?
A: Yes, this is imperative. Focusing on agricultural development is crucial, and we must enhance our export economy to generate substantial income. Additionally, improving public transport services is vital, accompanied by measures to reduce the number of vehicles in urban areas. Ensuring the efficiency of railways and increasing passenger transport by train should be part of long-term plans that are carefully implemented.
Q:The Opposition accuses the Government of inefficiency when in power, but once in office, they seem to adopt similar working styles. This recurring pattern raises questions about the underlying motives?
A: Our country has long been entrenched in a political culture of making promises, where each side strives to outdo the other in delivering pledges. This dynamic seems to perpetuate a cycle of political rivalry and questionable practices.
To eliminate the politics of promises, Sri Lanka must establish a transparent and systematic structure. The current scenario, where promises are made to secure power without sufficient consideration for their feasibility or the financial implications, underscores the need for change. The issue lies in the lack of attention to practical aspects, such as the ability to fulfill promises and the balance between income and expenses.
For instance, the competition between political parties, where one promises subsidised fertiliSer for Rs 350 while another pledges it for free, exemplifies the real problem. It is imperative to reform this system of making unrealistic promises and shift towards a more responsible and sustainable approach to governance.
Q:To overcome this economic crisis, tackling corruption at the State level is imperative, isn’t it?
A: Indeed, recruiting skilled and experienced officers is crucial for this endeavour. It is essential to devise methods not only to curb corruption within Government institutions but also to address potential misuse in private enterprises. A comprehensive approach is necessary to foster transparency and integrity across the board.
Q:Can we expedite our path to development by adopting the methodologies employed by developed countries around the world?
A: Creating a completely corruption-free and theft-free country might be an idealistic notion only achievable in the skies, not at ground level. However, it is feasible to diminish corruption, waste, and theft. Even in reputedly corruption-free countries like Singapore, occasional incidents are reported. Similar reports surface periodically in nations like the US and UK. Nevertheless, the implementation of methods to minimise these issues is possible. As mentioned earlier, leveraging modern technical tools is crucial in this endeavour.
Q:Accusations have been made by certain parties claiming that leaders of major political parties shield each other when in power. Your comment?
A: Merely relying on political parties may not effectively address corruption. A systematic approach is necessary, involving a proper legal framework and program, to identify and hold accountable those involved in corrupt practices.
Q:The prevalent dynamic in our country’s Opposition is often characterised by traditional criticism of the Government’s actions. Do you believe it’s time for a change in this scenario?
A: The Opposition ought to critique the government’s shortcomings constructively and contribute to their rectification. It is the responsibility of the Opposition to identify and highlight these deficiencies, enabling the Government to address and correct them.
If there are allegations of wrongdoing within the Government, these should be carefully examined, and if any mistakes are found, appropriate measures should be taken. Failing to do so erodes public trust in the Government, and the Opposition remains constrained in its effectiveness. A collaborative and accountable approach is crucial for fostering a more trustworthy political environment.
Q:Can our economy make a recovery through the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) provided by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)?
A: The EFF from the IMF serves as a temporary relief for our current economic crisis, providing guidance to restore rather than establish a stable economic system. It is crucial to use these credit facilities to develop the necessary economic structures. Concurrently, addressing corruption, reducing waste, and mitigating opportunities for fraud are essential steps in the recovery process. Additionally, proactive measures should be taken to attract new investments to foster economic growth in the country.
Q: What are your thoughts on the Online Safety Bill?
A: Regulating social media is necessary, but what are the implications of this Bill? Is the Government aiming for specific regulations, and is there a provision for special supervision? I have noticed areas in the act that may require amendments. There is a concern that it might infringe on society’s right to freely express opinions and comments.
Individuals should retain their democratic right to express opinions without interference. Considering that many social media platforms operate in accordance with international laws, such as Facebook, Google, and X (Twitter), it is crucial to align any local legal mechanisms with these international standards. If local regulations are established, it is imperative to implement them fairly in practice, respecting the principles of free expression upheld globally.
As mentioned previously, there are notable shortcomings in this Bill. Under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), even individuals like Martin Wickramasinghe could have faced arrest for expressing dissenting views. Legislation and regulations should prioritise the welfare of the people rather than causing inconvenience. It is crucial to strike a balance that upholds individual freedoms and safeguards against undue restrictions.
It is important to grasp the nuances of the situation. Generalising and treating everyone as suspects solely based on established rules is not fair. When a ‘comment’ is posted on social media, it’s inappropriate to lump together the creator of the original post and those who share that opinion. Each individual’s context, intent, and responsibility should be considered separately to ensure a fair and just evaluation.
Q:What can we anticipate in politics during this election year, given the evident conflicts and challenges?
A: This year poses considerable challenges, especially as it marks an election year with heightened political conflicts. The major political parties appear to be in a weakened state, and the overall political current has also lost some of its vigour. Many individuals are observing the unfolding events, waiting to see how the political landscape evolves. Notably, new political forces are emerging, emphasising the need for fresh faces to enter politics. It is essential for society to be open to embracing these new figures. Despite the challenges, concerted efforts should be made to create a conducive environment where the true hopes of the people can finally be realised.
