S.M. Marikkar

Main Opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP S.M. Marikkar yesterday called on the Government to resign if it cannot successfully manage crises rather than putting the masses in more misery.

He said the sharp fuel hike amidst the pandemic is akin to putting people from a frying pan into the fire. He recalled when the previous regime increased the price by Rs. 2 or 3, Mahinda Rajapaksa in the Opposition rode to Parliament in a cycle. Marikkar inquired whether, following the sharp increase, their MPs will now come in a bullock cart. 

The SJB MP warned that the latest hike will have a spiral effect on the prices of all goods and services, further burdening the already suffering masses.

“The fuel hike, the economic crisis and COVID crisis are all due to improper management on the part of the Government.” 

He also recalled when oil prices declined sharply last year, the Opposition urged the Government to extend the relief to the people. “But the Government was deaf and stubborn, and did not do so,” Marikkar claimed.

He alleged that CPC is unable to import due to the foreign reserves shortage and serious loss and debt situation.

It was emphasised that following the EU Parliamentary vote, if GSP+ is suspended, Sri Lanka›s exports will be severely impacted, thereby worsening the depleting foreign reserves situation.

He also said the President has been in office for nearly one and half years and the Government for nearly a year, however the cost of living is on the rise and people have lost their income avenues due to COVID and other problems. 

He said this Government has forced the country into becoming a land of price increases rather than development. “Therefore we urge the Government to resign if it can’t manage crises better,” SJB MP Marikkar said.

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