Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser and Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa has stated that fuel taxes have been increased well beyond previous levels, with the entire burden ultimately falling on the public. He reportedly made these remarks during a discussion with a group of MPs in Parliament.
The MP emphasised that since the current government promised to provide fuel at landed cost, it should at least take steps to reduce the taxes imposed on fuel.
Key Points
- Allegations that fuel taxes have been raised beyond earlier levels, burdening the public
- The government, which pledged to provide fuel at landed cost, must at least lower taxes
- Points out that salaries have not increased proportionally despite the soaring cost of essential foods
Cost of living and government solutions
The MP pointed out that while the prices of essential foodstuffs have risen sharply and driven up the cost of living, there has been no corresponding increase in salaries. He questioned whether the government's solution is to impose another new tax or to suppress the opposition and the public by conducting investigations.
He further alleged that over the past two years, the government has failed to implement any successful programme to control the cost of living, reduce educational expenses for schoolchildren, or strengthen the household economy.
