The Sunday Observer interviewed, the Kegalle District team leader of the NPP, Dr. Dhammika Patabendi who is vying for a parliamentary seat with a promise to revitalise the region and address long-standing issues that have plagued it. Dr. Patabendi speaks candidly about his vision to uplift Kegalle’s economy, strengthen social safety nets and tackle corruption. In this interview, he discusses his plans to enhance job opportunities for youth, revitalise tourism and manage the impact of IMF policies on ordinary citizens.
Q: What are your main plans to boost Kegalle’s economy?
A: Kegalle has unfortunately become one of the poorest Districts in Sri Lanka, even after years following the end of the war. This isn’t due to external conflict but a result of political neglect. Ministers, Deputy Ministers and State officials have used their power to enrich themselves rather than serve the District, effectively draining Kegalle’s resources. My main objective is to reverse this trend and eradicate poverty by supporting the District’s local industries, businesses and entrepreneurs. Many of them have struggled due to the lack of political and economic support.
In addition to empowering local businesses, I see enormous potential in Kegalle’s tourism sector, specifically the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This site was once the third most popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, but now the European Union has banned it as a tourist attraction. Revitalising this landmark tourist attraction and attracting international tourists again could create jobs and generate revenue. Politicians of the District have neglected tourism here and it’s time to restore Kegalle’s reputation as a key tourist destination.
Q: How do you view the impact of the IMF’s austerity measures on ordinary Sri Lankans?
A: The IMF-imposed tax reforms have put severe pressure on Sri Lankans, particularly the middle class whose financial stability has been upended by these policies. Tax burdens are reshaping their lives drastically. Beyond taxes, decisions influenced by the IMF, such as privatising the SriLankan Airlines and the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), warrant a careful review. We need to protect our national resources and I believe that decisions affecting public assets should be given careful thought rather than enforced under international pressure.
The NPP Government will work on these policies with the IMF. We will do our best to renegotiate tax burdens to provide some relief. We need legislative power to do so and with the people’s mandate after the elections, we intend to prioritise easing these financial pressures on citizens.
Q: What fiscal policies would you support to manage Sri Lanka’s debt?
A: Fiscal responsibility is crucial and while the current budget may not fully address debt issues, I believe we can make a real difference in the next budget cycle. We need a sustainable fiscal plan that not only manages debt but also considers long-term economic growth. Our goal is to craft policies that ensure stability, minimise unnecessary spending and generate revenue that benefits everyone.
Q: What measures would you take to strengthen social safety nets for low-income families in the Kegalle district?
A: Social support for low-income families is essential, and the Aswasuma welfare program should continue but with improvements. We need a transparent system to ensure that aid reaches those truly in need. This requires a census to accurately identify recipients and a review process to address any loopholes. My team would make sure that each qualified recipient of the Kegalle District receives a minimum of 10,000 rupees, allowing families to cover basic needs and live with dignity.
Q: What steps would you push to reduce corruption and improve governance?
A: Tackling corruption requires the top setting an example. A genuine anti-corruption agenda starts with the President and flows down through every level of Government. First, legal action should be instituted against those involved in large-scale fraud. Beyond enforcement, we need to nurture a political culture where honesty and integrity are valued. Our society’s values have shifted and it’s disturbing that those who are not corrupt are seen as weak or lacking ambition. Changing this mindset through education and cultural initiatives is the key to a better social outcome. I aim to help build a future where public officials and citizens alike understand the value of integrity.
Q: What initiatives would you introduce to create jobs for Kegalle’s youth?
A: Our youth need better job opportunities and Kegalle has the potential in both technology and tourism. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s national technology plan is a step in the right direction and I would work to identify and nurture local talent, directing young people toward tech-related careers. Tourism holds untapped potential in Kegalle. By developing tourism infrastructure, we can create jobs that leverage our cultural and natural attractions, providing employment for the younger generation. Education is also crucial; we will work to expand access and provide skills training so that Kegalle’s youth are equipped to succeed.
Kegalle’s natural beauty and resources are its assets and development should complement, not compromise the environment. Sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices must be at the core of our policies. We need to implement policies that balance the need for industrial and economic growth with environmental conservation, particularly through promoting responsible tourism and encouraging green business practices. There are plenty of youth who can undertake these projects and we need new talent to look at these aspects with a novel viewpoint.
Q: What would be your first legislative priority in Parliament to help bring positive change to Sri Lanka?
A: My top legislative focus would be anti-corruption reform. The existing laws have loopholes that allow corrupt individuals to escape accountability, leading to repeated cases of fraud and misuse of public resources. We need stricter, more comprehensive laws to close these gaps and ensure that fraud and corruption are punished consistently. Preventing corruption and waste is essential to protect national resources and rebuild public trust in our institutions.
