The Hon. Aboobucker Athambawa

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, the Government presented its first Budget early this year and now its second for 2026. This is not just numbers on paper; it aims to win hearts and rebuild the economy as expected by the people, and is being recognized domestically and internationally as a strong Budget. It targets a stable, inclusive economy, export diversification, debt sustainability, strengthening production, eradicating rural poverty, and digitalization to lift the economy – including earning future foreign exchange through digital transformation.

¶ 02 Regarding the previous Budget, contrary to a Northern MP’s incorrect claims, large allocations were made to the North and East. In 2025, Ampara District received about Rs. 18,231.97 million; Batticaloa received over Rs. 9,000 million. The Eastern Province has seen visible development – an “abundance of development” in Ampara and Batticaloa – with around 90 per cent of funds utilized so far.

¶ 03 Ampara produces 20 per cent of the nation’s paddy. For the reconstruction of the Gal Oya scheme, about Rs. 900 million was allocated, with 60 per cent of works completed; upon completion, we expect paddy output to rise to 25 per cent of the national total.

¶ 04 The historic Karaithivu–Mavadippalli Bridge, linking South, East, and North, had not been rebuilt for 90 years despite many fatalities on its narrow span. The Government allocated Rs. 242.7 million to reconstruct it.

¶ 05 Under the “Prosperous Country – Beautiful Coast” initiative to create coastal parks nationwide, about 10 coastal parks are being built in Ampara with Rs. 1.5–2 million each, among many other projects.

¶ 06 For 2026, Rs. 150 million has been allocated to develop the Kalmunai Santhangeni Sports Ground; last year also Rs. 150 million was allocated but could not be used due to resource constraints. This year we will proceed after discussions with the President and the Minister. In Nintavur, a cultural hall left incomplete for 29 years will be rebuilt with Rs. 300 million in this Budget, following our commitments; some in the Opposition now try to claim credit, but we secured this with the President and the Minister.

¶ 07 For Batticaloa fishermen, Rs. 350 million has been allocated to develop the Valachchenai fisheries harbour. The North and East have received substantial funds through both Budgets. Those in the Opposition cannot digest this and subtly stoke communalism to divide communities. Such rhetoric harms the country’s development and future. Thank you.