- Tens of thousands are rallying behind the Samagi People’s Force
- will Appoint a caretaker Government
Q: Will you be the ninth Executive President of Sri Lanka as of the 22nd of this month?
A: Absolutely. I am confident of securing a decisive victory in this Presidential election. Throughout Sri Lanka, tens of thousands are rallying behind the Samagi People’s Force and the Samagi People’s Alliance. Our movement enjoys widespread support from all segments of society—Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Islamists, and Christians alike.
No other candidate has garnered such extensive nationwide backing. Our alliance is the broadest and most democratic coalition in this presidential race.
Unlike others, which are characterised by unholy or totalitarian alliances, our coalition has presented a clear, practical policy agenda and vision that resonates with the people. Given these factors, our victory is assured.
Q: How confident are you about winning the election?
A: I am absolutely confident—100 percent certain. Our meetings are drawing large crowds, and we are seeing increasing support from voters who have previously backed other parties.
The international community, which has shown interest in our country, is looking for a leader who can uphold harmony, peace, and democracy, and avoid extremism and corruption. Given these factors, our confidence in securing victory has only strengthened.
Q: With the Presidential election just days away, if you are entrusted with the responsibility after the 22nd, how will you address it?
A: First and foremost, my Presidency will focus on stabilising the current instability. I will ensure that no violence or political revenge takes place and will prioritise national security.
I plan to represent the mandate given to me by dissolving the current Parliament and appointing a caretaker Government in the interim.
This Government will immediately work on relieving the people burdened by debt, high taxes, and economic hardship. I will swiftly assemble political and administrative teams to implement the promises outlined in our manifesto.
Rebuilding our damaged international relations will be a priority, and I will initiate discussions with the International Monetary Fund to address our financial challenges.
Q: You mention having a strong team around you. Will this group be capable of continuing the government’s processes effectively?
A: Absolutely. Our team is both intelligent and efficient, with a track record of pragmatic governance. They come with no allegations of corruption and have a history of successful performance. I am assigning key ministries to individuals of this calibre—people who have demonstrated integrity and competence across various sectors such as energy, digital infrastructure, finance, public administration, economic development, the industrial sector, and foreign policy.
This team is dedicated and trustworthy, committed to upholding their reputation and advancing the nation’s interests. I am honoured and confident to lead such a distinguished group.
Q: It has been mentioned of the possibility of a merger between Ranil and Sajith. Can we expect to see a Ranil-Sajith rally before or after the presidential election?
A: Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent statements about a potential merger reveal his acknowledgment that he is not a key player in this Presidential race. His campaign now seems focused on promoting the idea of joining forces due to his belief that he cannot win independently.
In contrast, we are confident in our path to victory and are seeing increasing support from people with diverse political views. Wickremesinghe’s current actions reflect his frustration and desperation, which is regrettable.
Q: A recent MP who left the party suggested that Ranil and Sajith joining forces might be beneficial. What’s your response?
A: If Ranil Wickremesinghe had been effective, he wouldn’t have lost so many Presidential votes or failed to win crucial support. The UNP looked for a new leader capable of securing votes, and Wickremesinghe’s actions closed off opportunities for others to succeed. Instead of fostering new leadership, he obstructed it. His current negative campaign against me is indicative of his inability to embrace democratic principles and support emerging leaders within the party.
Q: If you win, will you invite other parties to form a new Government?
A: Our alliance already includes support from many parties, and we are open to anyone who aligns with our manifesto. However, forming a new Government will require a general election. I am confident that voters will choose capable, intelligent, and uncorrupted representatives from all parties.
We will then select the best individuals to build a strong and effective Government.
Q: The current Government has announced a salary increase for Government employees. How will your administration address salary issues if you come to power?
A: The recent salary increase announcement by the Government appears to be a move to win votes rather than a genuine solution. We view these proposals as electioneering rather than effective policy.
Our commitment is to significantly improve the income for all salaried individuals, including Government employees. We plan to implement revolutionary measures to boost national income, which will support our ability to enhance salaries sustainably.
Q: What privileges will you provide to the people through your manifesto?
A: We are committed to maintaining and enhancing the current privileges and services available to the public. Initially, we will focus on reducing the cost of essentials such as oil and electricity to provide immediate relief. Our goal is to maximise the contribution of the people to a productive economy, ensuring that they benefit from our policies.
Q: The task of rebuilding the country falls to the next Government. If elected, what is your plan for economic recovery?
A: Our economic recovery plan includes a comprehensive debt restructuring program that will avoid placing additional burdens on the public. We aim to triple the country’s national income through a digital revolution and by creating development zones across regional secretariats.
We will take strong measures to eradicate corruption, fraud, and bribery, fostering a transparent and efficient working environment. Our focus will be on building a nation where the socio-economic benefits of progress are fairly distributed among all citizens.
Q: The Opposition claims that increased loan payments starting in 2028 will be a heavy burden. How does your Government plan to manage this?
A: We are actively pursuing a debt restructuring program to address this issue. We are engaged in ongoing discussions with international financial institutions to develop economic strategies that balance necessary austerity measures without unduly burdening the people. Our goal is to strengthen Sri Lanka’s economy to ensure that by 2028, we can manage debt payments effectively without risking national bankruptcy.
Q: How will you ensure that the people do not feel the strain of these economic measures?
A: Currently, the national debt burden is heavily placed on the people, while the leadership often avoids accountability. We aim to shift this by adopting a social democratic economic philosophy. Our approach will involve implementing a fair and equitable national revenue plan that seeks to relieve the tax burden on citizens while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Q: Will you offer any relief from the tax burden?
A: Absolutely. Our national income strategy is grounded in a fair tax policy. We are committed to avoiding oppressive tax practices and ensuring that the tax system is equitable and just, so that the burden on the people is minimised.
Q: Even if the IMF deal continues, is your Government prepared to negotiate its terms?
A: The IMF’s conditions are not overly severe; they essentially require us to manage our expenses within our income. This is a prudent guideline.
The real issue is that the current Government has enacted measures beyond what the IMF has prescribed, leading to confusion. We need to address and rectify these discrepancies to ensure clarity and effective implementation.
Q: Dr. Harsha de Silva argues that if the National People’s Power’s policy statement is implemented, it could stall the IMF program. What’s your take on this?
A: The proposals put forward by the National People’s Power lack practical feasibility and substance. There is no point talking about it.
Q: The National People’s Power has become very active in the current political climate. Do they pose a significant challenge to your campaign?
A:The National People’s Power is not a significant challenge. Despite their growth from a small party, they have yet to demonstrate the capacity to reach the broad base of support that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya has.
Q: The National People’s Power is proposing to limit the number of ministerial posts to 25. Do you think this is practical? What is your view on such a restriction?
A: For the National People’s Power to even consider forming a Cabinet, they would first need to win the election, which seems unlikely. Therefore, discussing their proposed Cabinet structure is premature.
In any case, the size of the Cabinet can be optimised; a smaller, more efficient Cabinet can be effective if ministries are allocated based on a strategic and scientific approach.
Q: Finally, what message do you have for the people?
A: I am confident that we will win. I encourage everyone to join us with trust and support as we move forward.
