Eran calls for extension of suspension of parate law

SJB Colombo district candidate Eran Wickramaratne

• President Anura Kumara called on Dissanayake to extend the suspension of parachute executions until the end of December
• Emphasizes the vital role of SMEs in the SL economy and calls for continued support
• He says the SJB has consistently pushed for the relaxation of monetary legislation to protect entrepreneurs

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Colombo district candidate Eran Wickramaratne has called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to extend the suspension of parate executions to the end of December, beyond the current deadline of December 15.

Speaking at a press conference in Colombo, Wickramaratne emphasized that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the Sri Lankan economy and deserve continued support in difficult times.

“The country’s bankruptcy was a result of flawed economic policies under President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. This collapse was not the fault of SMEs, which made a significant contribution to the gross domestic product, but was due to the decisions of the ruling authorities at the time and international pressures,” said Wickramaratne.

He noted the economic repercussions of Rajapaksa’s policies, including tax cuts that led to national bankruptcy, 100% inflation in commodity prices and a 70% increase in general inflation. As inflation soared, banks increased interest rates on business loans, putting SMEs at risk of failure. In many cases, this has forced entrepreneurs to sell their assets to pay off debts.

“Although the Parate law provides businesses with access to loans, the application of this law poses serious risks when external factors cause business failures,” he warned.

Wickramaratne emphasized that the SJB constantly supports the relaxation of monetary law to protect entrepreneurs from undue hardship.

Although the Government under President Ranil Wickremesinghe had initially postponed the implementation of the law until December, Wickramaratne called on President Dissanayake to extend this suspension period to alleviate economic uncertainty, support SMEs and promote economic stability.

Addressing the upcoming General Elections, Wickramaratne underlined the importance of electing Parliamentary candidates with significant experience. He welcomed new faces in parliament but stressed that they must have practical expertise beyond their political background.

“Parliament needs people with real-world experience, a professional background or higher education, not just those involved in politics. “Without such an experience, the effectiveness of the Parliament will be damaged and the future of the country will be affected,” he said.

Wickramaratne also underlined the need for an independent civil service, free from political influence. He warned against appointing public officials based solely on political loyalty and advocated a merit-based system to ensure talented people were promoted.

“Politicizing the public service to achieve particular agendas undermines its integrity. “An independent public service is vital for the progress of the country,” he concluded.