Hon. Kandasaami Prabhu

¶ 01 Through our government, all state departments are operating independently and are independently taking legal action against waste and fraud. In 2025, budget allocations for the Batticaloa District were fully spent. Due to the disaster situation, some development projects and work programmes that had been scheduled for completion within a given timeframe are now approaching completion. The opposition, together with certain politicians, conduct misleading campaigns, spread racist ideas, and stage protests in order to maintain their political relevance, but the people understand that this government is steadily advancing its work programme.

¶ 02 The Colombo Port City Economic Commission (Amendment) Bill provides a range of tax incentives to attract investors. As you know, under the scheme: investments up to 25 million receive an eight-year tax holiday; up to 100 million, a ten-year holiday; up to 500 million, a twelve-year holiday; and above one billion, a fifteen-year holiday. These amendments aim to foster public-private partnerships so that investments are undertaken in collaboration with the people, thereby enabling rapid, large-scale development within the Port City economic framework.

¶ 03 Tourist arrivals have been increasing, bringing in much-needed foreign exchange. Likewise, today taxpayers and businesspeople are voluntarily and properly paying taxes, allowing us to earn significantly higher tax revenue. In the past, rulers granted special tax concessions to their associates, depriving the country of substantial revenue. Now, our economic growth has the potential to reach 6%.

¶ 04 The recent “Dithva” cyclone has slightly weakened the economy, but we will redouble our efforts and engage in many activities for economic development. The opposition has recently criticized the “Praja Shakthi” programme. Some in my district also voiced confusion or different views. However, people recognize that “Praja Shakthi” is well designed. Rather than merely opposing, the better path is to point out shortcomings, correct them, and move forward. This programme is ideal for developing regions and uplifting economically lagging villages, with people and officials working together to achieve sustainable economic growth.

¶ 05 Trusting in our National People’s Power government, people are paying taxes correctly. That is why revenues have risen. We will make Sri Lanka prosperous and create a beautiful life for our people. I conclude my speech. Thank you.