Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that after closely observing discussions on the budget and the criticisms raised by the opposition, it is evident that the system change the people expected is currently taking place.
The Prime Minister made these remarks in Parliament today (20) during the Committee Stage Debate on the Budget.
The Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further stated:
Throughout the past month, we have engaged in extensive discussions inside and outside of Parliament regarding the first budget of the government and we have met with trade unions, various institutions, and individuals to review their perspectives on the budget.
The proposals and criticisms which have been directed through those discussions have helped in strengthening the budget further.
However, I have observed whether there has been any progress in the statements made by the opposition from the first day of the budget debate to the present day as it is expected certain changes and development over a month of period.
However, when analyzing the content of certain speeches made by the opposition, it became clear that they are still in the same place.
The criticisms centered on the debate seemed to stem from the pain of wounded egos that cannot be resolved through a budget. When closely examining the discussions centered on the budget, it is evident that the system change the government is striving for is indeed taking action.
System change does not occur in one isolated area. It rather alters the power dynamics on the relationships within society. In a true system change, existing relationships are shifted and restructured. When observing who is most affected by this process, it is evident that the system change is taking place.
Many of the criticisms directed at the budget come through those who previously had misused power within the old system for personal privileges. A society organized by such privilege is not a democratic society. The aim of the government is to change the old system. A society where power was unfairly exploited is rejected by almost everyone.
The hardworking individuals, and the entrepreneurs who make fair and responsible investments, with ethical participation are content with this budget debate. It no longer requires them to seek political favors to establish their business projects. They are now granted the freedom to operate independently. Further, it has facilitated them with future planning and prediction.
The public service sector which is recognized now under the present government appreciates these changes. They are received with renewed sense of trust and value. There is a growing number of officials who are content with discharging their duties without being subject to any pressure.
Women, children, persons with disability, community in the upcountry, and many others who were previously marginalized are now receiving the satisfactory relief.
The new economic path for future is opening up, and they can see new opportunities ahead. This budget has provided a new light and a pathway forward for a significant number of the population that had been previously deprived of economic benefits.
The issue of unemployed youth has been widely debated, with accusations that promises have not been fulfilled. However, the reality is that instead of providing jobs that do not match qualifications or aspirations, we are creating sustainable pathways for development. We have already taken steps to generate many job opportunities. Delays in implementation have primarily been due to the chaotic decisions made by previous governments, as well as ongoing legal cases.
Criticism of the budget mainly comes from those who previously used public grievances to gain power and privilege for themselves.
Both public officials and elected representatives have made tremendous sacrifices and worked tirelessly to ensure that no one is left behind when making decisions.
Prime Minister’s Media Division