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Although the former government’s budget projected a revenue of LKR 2.3 trillion, LKR 1.6 trillion is the realistic projection of this year’s revenue. The estimated government expenditure for this year is LKR 3.3 trillion. However, due to the increase in interest rates and additional expenditure of the former government, the total government expenditure is LKR 4 trillion. The budget deficit for the year is LKR 2.4 trillion.

Irrespective of who is there [in positions of power], an unconstitutional event has already taken place in the country… The other thing is that none of the 225 MPs, the current president or prime minister can take the required decisions about the country. The public has rendered their power void… the public has come to Colombo and demonstrated the people’s sovereignty outside of the constitution and have declared that “it is we have who have the power now, not you”.

Some claim that Sri Lanka is a bankrupt country. Bankruptcy is not merely determined by the amount of assets the country has and the amount of responsibilities we have. Our assets are USD 400 billion, and our commitments are USD 47 billion. Therefore, in that sense we are not bankrupt. But what they are referring to is the balance of payment, the dollars required for day-to-day expenses.

“The executive presidential system can only be abolished by enacting a new constitution. This is because the president’s powers extend throughout the constitution.”