Monday Mar 16, 2026
Monday Mar 16, 2026
Monday, 16 March 2026 05:09 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa yesterday accused the Government of arrogance and a lack of foresight, warning that Sri Lanka could face further economic strain as global tensions and domestic policy missteps begin to affect the economy.
Speaking at an event in Kegalle, Premadasa said the public was already facing mounting hardship and that the reintroduction of the QR-based fuel distribution system suggested fuel consumption would once again have to be restricted.
He warned that the measure could increase public frustration and place additional pressure on the economy.
Premadasa said the Opposition had previously cautioned the Government about possible disruptions linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and had urged authorities to prepare contingency plans, but claimed those warnings were ignored by ministers.
“If the country truly faces no problem as claimed by the Foreign Minister at the time, there would be no need to introduce a QR code system again,” he said.
He alleged that the administration lacked strategic planning to manage emerging risks and accused it of reacting only after problems had escalated.
Premadasa also claimed that coal imported by the Government was of poor quality, stating that electricity generation had fallen by around 135 megawatts as a result.
He further warned that policy failures and weak governance could eventually lead to QR-based controls being extended to other sectors, including fertiliser distribution to farmers.
Premadasa also criticised the Government for prioritising political retaliation instead of addressing the country’s economic challenges.
