The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, after about a month of debate on the inaugural NPP Government’s Budget, we are at the final day and a half. Throughout this month, inside and outside Parliament, we engaged with trade unions, associations, institutions and individuals on the Budget. Those discussions have been very useful—strengthening our proposals and broadening and sharpening our positions.

¶ 02 I listened to the Opposition from the early days of debate to now, to see whether the content evolved through dialogue. It seems, in many cases, their speeches remained the same—repeating points, sometimes straying from or misrepresenting what is actually in the Budget. Some critiques felt less like policy engagement and more like bruised egos. Those are not issues this Budget can solve.

¶ 03 What I also realized is that the “system change” we aim for is indeed underway. System change is not a single event; it alters relationships and power structures across society. The strongest resistance comes from those who held power and privileges under the old system—who used that power to secure advantages and exercise influence through bargaining power. Much of the harsh criticism comes from such quarters.

¶ 04 A society organized around privileges and entitlements is neither democratic nor inclusive. We are changing that—to end exclusive enjoyment of power and privilege and create an inclusive order. Who is satisfied with this debate? Genuine entrepreneurs—ethical, responsible, hardworking—are relieved. They see they no longer need to run behind politicians or ministers to do business; they see a consistent two‑ to three‑year plan, enabling forecasting and planning. Public servants who work diligently feel recognized, with a path towards a decent living wage and professional respect.

¶ 05 Those who were often invisible or marginalized—women, persons with disabilities, youth, people in villages and in underserved urban communities—see pathways opening to improve their economic conditions. That is evident from engagements on the ground.

¶ 06 On youth employment, we were accused of not fulfilling promises. The truth is we are replacing the patronage‑based lottery of “jobs” that failed to provide dignity or professional growth, with a pathway to meaningful work—valuing skills, identity and development. We have already opened channels to generate jobs. Why has it not moved faster? Because decisions of previous governments created legal barriers; certain Supreme Court cases have imposed limits. We expect our recent Cabinet decisions, once before court, will allow us to proceed. The core principle is to restore the true value of work and create paths where people can advance through their professions.

¶ 07 We listened to proposals from groups—our State Minister of Finance continues to engage—to make this Budget as fair as possible. Our officials worked hard to ensure decisions align with the principle of justice so that no one is left behind. Those discussions helped strengthen our measures.

¶ 08 This is what system change looks like: as we shift from the old order, some who benefitted from it will feel discomfort or loss; they are the loudest critics. But the old order must change. From those who share our vision for a new path, we have received valuable criticism and proposals.

¶ 09 This is the first Budget presented under a very challenging governance context. I thank the President, the two State Ministers of Finance, the Ministry of Finance and all ministries’ officials, and everyone who engaged with proposals and critiques to help keep us on the correct path. Thank you.