President says political establishment now free from corruption

President Anura Kumara Disanayake says the political establishment is now free from corruption.

He said this while speaking at the “Post-Budget Forum 2025” discussion held at the Cinnamon Life Hotel in Colombo on Wednesday.

The pointed out that due to the previous government’s poor financial management, the country, which had faced bankruptcy, is currently under some form of supervision within the International Monetary Fund?s program.

“I emphasized that this year?s budget lays the foundation for building a strong economy, which is essential for the country’s recovery. Through debt restructuring, the government aims to utilize the three-year grace period effectively and expects to have the capacity to service the debt by 2028 through proper economic management,” he said.

He also noted that while it has taken decades for many countries to rebuild after bankruptcy, Sri Lanka will likely recover in less than a decade, based on current progress.

The President said the budget focuses on driving economic expansion by promoting economic activities in rural areas and integrating citizens into the economy, with an expectation of improved benefits for the people.

The current Government plans to reintegrate marginalized groups back into the economy and aims to create small economic units at the village level, fostering a dynamic environment for small and medium-sized enterprises across the country.

He stressed that supporting industry is a key government objective, with a focus on reducing production costs to benefit consumers.

“The largest allocation from this year?s budget has been directed towards education, aiming to address human and physical resource restructuring within the school system. This approach seeks to promote a multi-track education system, rather than just a linear one.
This year’s budget also emphasizes state expenditure management, acknowledging the need for significant funding to provide government services, and thus, there is an expectation for a review of public sector expenses,” the President said.

He underscored that the political establishment has become free from corruption, and it is the responsibility of citizens to foster a culture of anti-bribery.

Regarding trade, he mentioned that the Government plans to sign new trade agreements, aiming to create an export-oriented economy, with higher export revenues expected this year.

The current Government is focusing on creating a port-centered economy, and the budget also highlights plans for an efficient logistics hub, he said.

The President said that Tourism promotion is a priority, with initiatives to implement city branding programs, including plans for the development of cities like Anuradhapura, Jaffna, and Kandy.

Additionally, he noted the government’s intention to expand economic opportunities through public administration reforms. (Colombo Gazette)