Courtesy Hiru News

Former Member of Parliament Dr. Harsha de Silva expressed concerns over the National People’s Power (NPP) government’s recent borrowing practices, revealing that over 400 billion rupees have been borrowed in just a few weeks.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Samagi Jana Sandhana headquarters yesterday (18), he criticized the centralization of financial power with the President, rather than Parliament. He stressed that while implementing the President’s recommendations, Parliament has a duty to provide positive criticism and ensure proper management of the country’s economy.

Dr. de Silva pointed out that during past election campaigns, the NPP criticized previous governments for borrowing without benefiting the people and mismanaging loan funds. Now, despite the NPP’s significant borrowing, he questioned whether any substantial progress, such as infrastructure development or economic relief for citizens, has been achieved.

He highlighted that the current government borrows every Wednesday through treasury bills or bonds, and although President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has not misused funds, the shift to a new economic system is necessary, as the old one has failed.