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President Ranil Wickremesinghe challenged Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake to participate in an open virtual discussion with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This will allow the entire nation to assess the truthfulness of their public promises and statements.
The President also highlighted that altering the agreement with the IMF is not feasible. He emphasized that such changes could lead to another economic collapse, with Premadasa and Dissanayake’s misleading promises of reduced prices and taxes potentially worsening the country’s situation. He stressed the need to prevent such deceptions.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe noted that while he wishes to reduce the prices of goods and lower taxes, such actions can only be achieved by strengthening the rupee and adhering to the agreements with the IMF. He also urged Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake to immediately present any alternative solutions and seek their opinion during the discussion with the IMF.
The President made these remarks during the Special Convention of the United National Party (UNP), held today (25) at the Party Headquarters ‘Sirikotha’, Pitakotte.
Recalling on D.S. Senanayake, the founder of the UNP, President Wickremesinghe said that he was dedicated to preserving Sri Lankan identity. President Wickremesinghe, following the example of Dudley Senanayake, J.R. Jayawardene and Ranasinghe Premadasa, stated that his inspiration from working with these legends is to prioritize the country's welfare above all else.
A large number of UNP members attended the special convention, expressing their support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who successfully navigated the country through the economic crisis in 2022. They endorsed his candidacy as an independent for the upcoming Presidential Election on September 21, with the aim of advancing Sri Lanka toward development. The proposal to express the party's agreement was presented to the conference by UNP General Secretary, Palitha Range Bandara.
The UNP National Organizer Sagala Ratnayaka confirmed the resolution; it was passed unanimously with all attendees raising their hands in agreement.
Additionally, the President inaugurated the newly renovated Sirikotha party headquarters.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe further stated;
“Today, you have given me the opportunity to run as an independent candidate in the upcoming Presidential Election. The proposal approved by the Executive Committee was ratified at this conference, and I want to thank you all for your support.
The UNP was founded by D.S. Senanayake, who was committed to defending both a free Sri Lanka and its identity. On September 6, 1946, he declared that the primary duty of the UNP is to protect Sri Lanka. We should all think of ourselves not just as members of the UNP but as Sri Lankans. If Sri Lanka fails, the UNP will also be at risk. This is the message we received from leaders such as Dudley Senanayake, J.R. Jayawardene, and Ranasinghe Premadasa. As a Sri Lankan, I accepted the role of Prime Minister and subsequently the Presidency to save this country.
I took on these responsibilities because I witnessed the suffering of our people in gas, fuel, medicine, and food queues. When the people face such hardships, we must empathize with them and work to address these issues. Failing to do so would be a grave injustice. The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) have also failed in this regard. However, together, we have protected the fundamental rights of the people.
No one, including Sajith Premadasa, the leader of the SJB, has worked under President J.R. Jayawardene or President R. Premadasa. I was also responsible for bringing Sajith into the party, so their understanding of these issues is limited. They do not have the insight of leaders like D.S. Senanayake. Consequently, they chose to leave the party, which is not surprising. As members of the UNP, our priority is always the country’s welfare.
In the 2020 election, the UNP's policy statement highlighted the need for USD 03 billion to address the economic crisis. Neither the SJB nor the JVP addressed this issue. We were defeated for speaking the truth, but we understood the gravity of the situation. I engaged with the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, recognizing that the problem could be resolved with the assistance of the International Monetary Fund.
After Gotabhaya Rajapaksa left the country, no one sought the Presidency. When I requested support, Sajith Premadasa, influenced by ‘Sattambhirala’, chose to back Dallas Alahapperuma. It is important to remember that when Premadasa sought to impeach the President, I stepped in to support him. I also attended his funeral, yet these efforts seem to be forgotten. Throughout, I have consistently defended this party.
During the 1971, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) rebellion, then-President J.R. Jayewardene declared his support for the government, explaining that if the country were lost, nothing else would matter. Similarly, in 1989, when the JVP insurgency erupted again, then President Ranasinghe Premadasa invited Late Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike for discussions. She agreed to support the government, demonstrating a longstanding tradition of unity among political parties in times of crisis. When the Late President Premadasa was assassinated, Late Sirimavo Bandaranaike assured me that her party would not nominate a candidate for president but would instead support someone from our party. Such customs of mutual support have long been a part of our political tradition, even though some may not be aware of this history.
Facing the current challenges, I accepted the task of addressing these issues and assembled a dedicated team. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya and Shehan Semasinghe were appointed as state ministers, and I collaborated with key ministers including Ali Sabry, Kanchana Wijesekera and Bandula Gunawardena. This collaborative effort proved successful.
Additionally, I worked closely with R.H.S. Samaratunga, Nandalal Weerasinghe, and Mahinda Siriwardana, with Sagala Ratnayaka serving as my chief of staff. Contributions from Indrajit Coomaraswamy, Shantha Devaraj, and Shamini Kure were also instrumental. Together, this team played a crucial role in stabilizing and saving the country's economy.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister took charge of Parliament, with significant support from ministers. The task was challenging, but through collective effort, we managed to stabilize the country.
We initiated a program with the IMF and engaged in discussions with 18 countries, leading to agreements that have helped bring the country to its current state.
During this period, we had to implement tax increases to boost government revenue. While we acknowledge the burden this placed on the people and are grateful for their endurance, we have worked to alleviate this pressure gradually, providing relief where possible.
These concessions were made possible by strengthening the rupee. According to our agreement with the IMF, we have specific targets to meet, and it is crucial to adhere to these goals.
However, the opposition's election manifesto promises reductions in the prices of goods and taxes. Lowering taxes would reduce government revenue, jeopardizing our ability to meet IMF targets and potentially leading to a return to the economic conditions of July 2022. Although I too wish to lower taxes, this must be achieved through a stronger rupee. We have already initiated a program to this end. Despite the difficulties, it is essential to continue on this path, as short-term popular decisions may not serve the country's long-term future.
We must avoid repeating past mistakes. When former President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa reduced taxes, despite the IMF’s clear stance against such cuts, the IMF subsequently withdrew its support.
The terms of agreements with the IMF are non-negotiable; they do not change their conditions. A similar situation occurred in Greece, leading to a severe economic collapse—a scenario we are determined to avoid in Sri Lanka.
Our current agreement ensures that we receive approximately USD 700 million from the IMF, the Asian Development Bank, and the World Bank every six months. This funding will support us till January. The IMF is scheduled to return for further discussions in October.
As the UNP, we affirm our commitment to advancing the current economic program. However, both the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) have suggested revising the program. If this occurs, the IMF may withhold funding for the coming year, potentially leading us back to previous economic challenges. Restarting discussions with the IMF could take two to three months, followed by an additional six weeks for approval by the IMF Board of Directors. It is impractical to go without financial support for six months.
I urge the SJB and JVP to clarify how they plan to fund the country if taxes are reduced. How will cutting state revenues address the country’s economic issues? We must avoid jeopardizing the country with false promises. We plan to hold a discussion with the IMF using electronic technology, involving all three parties. We will record this discussion and present it to the public to ensure transparency regarding the IMF's stance and our economic strategy.
If you believe that this agreement with the IMF can be altered, then directly address the IMF and request such a change. Additionally, explain how you plan to generate the necessary income if the goals are not met. We need clear answers to these questions. If you have a viable plan, present it to the public transparently. We propose that representatives from all three parties come together to negotiate with the IMF and share the outcomes of those discussions with the nation. This will allow the public to discern the truth and any falsehoods. Afterward, if anyone is dissatisfied, they can express their concerns clearly.
General Secretary of the UN), Palitha Range Bandara;
Two years ago, Sri Lanka faced a severe crisis, with the nation crippled by shortages of fuel, food, gas, and medicine. The country descended into chaos, with widespread unrest leading to the burning of politicians' homes. During this critical period, opposition groups, led by their leader, did not step forward to address the turmoil. Instead, they sought to exploit the disorder to gain power.
Amidst this crisis, President Ranil Wickremesinghe took on the challenging task of stabilizing the country, reviving the economy, and ensuring the people's access to essential services. Today, with 39 candidates running in the presidential election, it is evident that Ranil Wickremesinghe stands out as the leader with genuine leadership qualities.
Ranil Wickremesinghe foresaw the looming economic crisis as early as 2022 and included solutions in the UNP's 2020 general election policy statement. His foresight and proactive measures in addressing the economic challenges showcase his exceptional vision.
The current need is to build a strong foundation for the future, not merely to preserve what has already been achieved. President Ranil Wickremesinghe has proven himself as a leader who not only quelled the fires of crisis but did so with unwavering determination. It is our duty, as members of the UNP, to fully support and work towards his victory. As we conclude this conference today, let us renew our commitment to ensuring the success of our leader, President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
National Secretary of the UNP and former Minister Ravi Karunanayake,
In twenty-seven days, the Presidential Election will be held to choose the 9th Executive President of this country. Twenty-five months ago, Sri Lanka was in a time of crisis, marked by long queues and a bankrupt economy, with power cuts lasting up to 13 hours. Those who are loudly criticizing today did not step forward to accept the challenge back then. However, President Ranil Wickremesinghe did. He took on the responsibility and created conditions where those affected could rebuild their lives.
The UNP has always risen to meet the country’s challenges and has consistently worked for the benefit of the people. In 1948, the founder of the UNP, D.S. Senanayake, led the country to independence from colonial rule. In 1977, J.R. Jayawardene ended the era of shortages and introduced the open economy to Sri Lanka, creating a more liveable environment for its citizens. Similarly, in 2022, President Ranil Wickremesinghe successfully steered the country out of an economic crisis.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe has also introduced new policies aimed at modernizing the country's economy. He is already laying the necessary foundation to build an economy that will not falter again. This election is crucial to ensure the continuation of these efforts.
By May 2022, the nation's treasury held less than five million dollars. The current Presidential candidates did not step forward to find a solution at that time. In contrast, President Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke the truth, even when it was uncomfortable. Some of the decisions he made for the country's development may not be popular, but they are essential for economic recovery. Some opposition groups are currently promising tax reductions if they come to power. The people of this country remember how the economy collapsed after the leader who assumed office in 2020 implemented similar tax cuts. Do not be deceived by such appealing but misleading promises. If these policies are repeated, there may be no country left to rebuild.
UNP Vice Leader and Senior Adviser to the President, Akila Viraj Kariyawasam;
In this year's presidential election, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has secured support not only from the UNP’s allies but also from former rivals. A significant portion of the 6.9 million voters who previously backed former President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa have now aligned themselves with President Wickremesinghe. There is broad recognition, even among opponents, that President Wickremesinghe has the capability to lead the country toward recovery.
Some critics argue that President Wickremesinghe weakened their party and played a role in the defeat of the LTTE. These claims, however, inadvertently acknowledge his significant contribution to the war's outcome. Others have accused him of assuming leadership to facilitate Namal Rajapaksa's rise to power, but it has become clear that these accusations were baseless.
Despite efforts to create separate power factions, the majority of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) has united behind President Wickremesinghe. Many citizens are turning to him for leadership in navigating the country out of its current crisis. This presidential election is pivotal, as it will shape the country's future. President Ranil Wickremesinghe is the only candidate addressing progressive issues such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the digital economy, and modern agriculture. His victory would, therefore, be a victory for the country.
National Organizer of the UNP, Chief of Staff to the President and Senior Adviser on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka,
UNP Leader President Ranil Wickremesinghe has enters Presidential Election as Independent Candidate. As the country faced severe collapse and other leaders claimed recovery was impossible, President Ranil Wickremesinghe emerged as the only leader capable (‘Puluwan’) of addressing the crisis. He successfully eliminated shortages of fuel, gas, food, and medicine, ensuring that basic needs were met and creating conditions for the people to thrive.
At a time when Sri Lanka was unable to import goods, President Wickremesinghe’s economic policies have established a robust economy that now supports the import of all essential items except vehicles. Plans are in place to enable vehicle imports starting next year.
The essential economic programs required to ensure a prosperous life for the people have already been implemented. Additionally, the necessary decrees for economic modernization have been passed by Parliament. He worked to reintroduce laws that had been neglected for decades into Parliament. While some leaders were hesitant to address these laws due to their unpopularity, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, prioritizing the nation's welfare over personal politics, pushed for these essential economic reforms with the support of his team.
Our country, once on the brink of bankruptcy, has reached its current state through significant efforts. To rapidly advance the economy, essential programs have been implemented to foster an export-driven economy, develop a digital economy, and enhance the tourism industry.
As members of the UNP, we have a critical responsibility to support the President's leadership in these initiatives. It is our duty to contribute to these efforts and uphold our commitment to the program.
Deputy Leader of the UNP and Senior Adviser to the President on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardena,
TheUNP is a prominent political party that has produced exceptional leaders for this country. The UNP has consistently embraced challenges, as history attests. Mr. D S Senanayake was instrumental in liberating the country from colonial rule. The first Executive President, Mr. J R Jayawardena, ended the initial period of economic shortages. Mr. Ranasinghe Premadasa spearheaded the country’s industrial renaissance. More recently, two years ago President Ranil Wickremesinghe resolved the second era of shortages. Through these efforts, UNP leaders have significantly contributed to improving both the living standards and the economy of the nation.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe has demonstrated through his actions that he is the leader capable of rebuilding the country’s economy. His leadership is essential for the next five years. As members of the UNP, it is our duty to go from village to village and work towards ensuring President Ranil Wickremesinghe's victory.
Former Minister, Manusha Nanayakkara;
In 2020, the UNP faced a decisive defeat, leading to the formation of the Samagi Jana Sandhanaya. Despite this setback, President Ranil Wickremesinghe made his way back to Parliament, buoyed by the votes the UNP garnered nationwide. However, the party's defeat resulted in significant hardships for the people within just two years.
Amidst these challenges, President Ranil Wickremesinghe was the only leader who stood for the people, undeterred by his own political defeat. During a time of widespread fear and uncertainty about the future, no other leader stepped forward to alleviate the people's suffering. Many sought to capitalize on the crisis for their own political gain. Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and National People's Power (Jathika Jana Balawegaya) Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake tried to use the country's turmoil as a path to power, but it was President Ranil Wickremesinghe who remained steadfast in his duty to the nation of Sri Lanka, demonstrating true commitment to the people.
Today, the same political factions that have previously leveraged the people's struggles in their pursuit of power are once again competing for dominance. However, it is increasingly clear that President Ranil Wickremesinghe continues to stand out as the leader who consistently places the nation's interests above all else.
Chairman of the UNP, Wajira Abeywardana;
In 1948, all political parties came together, just as today to achieve independence for the country, with every party playing a role in supporting Mr. D. S. Senanayake's efforts. In a similar spirit of unity, both supporters and opposition parties have rallied behind President Ranil Wickremesinghe to help Sri Lanka navigate its current economic crisis.
Over the past two years, President Wickremesinghe has introduced a record salary increase for the 1.5 million public servants. In addition, 2 million citizens have been granted freehold land rights, and 20 kilograms of rice have been provided to families struggling financially. These initiatives were not driven by public demand or election promises but were implemented to protect the people during the country's bankruptcy. The President recognizes that the collapse of the public sector could trigger a broader economic downturn.
Looking forward, plans are in place to add Rs. 25,000 to the salaries of government employees next year. Unlike other sectors that can adjust prices according to economic conditions, government employees depend entirely on their fixed monthly salaries, with no external mechanisms to increase their pay.
Furthermore, new decrees have been passed to stabilize and rebuild the country's economy, ensuring it does not face collapse again. President Ranil Wickremesinghe has been instrumental in creating conditions that allow 23 million people to endure during these challenging times. As members of the UNP, we are dedicated to securing his appointment as the 09th Executive President, marking a historic achievement for the nation
Former Minister Mr. Harin Fernando:
Currently, 14 members of the Samagi Jana Sandhanaya have come together to support President Ranil Wickremesinghe's victory. Since 1993, the UNP has not had a President elected. Therefore, the upcoming Presidential Election is crucial. We now have the opportunity to elect a UNP leader as President. President Ranil Wickremesinghe, a visionary leader who revived the UNP, has worked tirelessly to address the pressing needs and concerns of the entire nation.
A country that was once in turmoil, where tourists were scarce, has been transformed into a nation where people can live and thrive today. This year alone, over 1.5 million tourists have visited Sri Lanka. Two years ago, some were demanding an election. Had an election been held then, the country would have faced economic and social ruin. However, within two years, the President strengthened the economy and created the stability needed for a Presidential Election. President Ranil Wickremesinghe is a strong and capable leader. With his leadership, we are confident in securing victory in the upcoming presidential election.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe is the leader who saved the UNP when others had stepped away. Therefore, it is the party’s responsibility to ensure his victory. With the gas cylinder symbolically placed on the elephant's back, we are determined to secure victory this time.
