The Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Thank you, Madam Chair, for the opportunity.

¶ 02 This inaugural NPP “Mangala Budget” debate is historic. The Opposition attempted various economic theories and narratives today, but the very policies they pursued for decades led the country to bankruptcy. The NPP has now presented a democratic Budget to put a derailed country back on the right path—a Budget that learns from the past and present to secure a successful future and restore lost economic freedom and sovereignty.

¶ 03 Countries that went bankrupt have faced “lost decades.” Let us not forget the state of the economy when we took office. Despite criticisms, this Budget instills a growth mindset and societal stability. It is a social renaissance—covering every sector and person with relief.

¶ 04 As a public representative, I am glad about the weight placed on women. Historically, women were treated as a vote bank; this Budget goes further, empowering women and combating gender-based violence, with Rs. 120 million allocated.

¶ 05 As a lawyer, I meet children in protective homes long marginalized by society. Recognizing and restoring their place is progressive. While many can quibble over line items, you cannot quantify compassion, empathy, and humanity—yet these define true value.

¶ 06 Some claim we are not doing what we promised. Not true. This Budget implements the “Prosperous Country – Beautiful Life” manifesto. There were false narratives about the NPP: temples and processions would be banned; extra houses and vehicles seized; tourism would collapse; queues would return. These have been proven false, hence their frustration. Their criticisms now reduce to trivialities.

¶ 07 In contrast, this Budget allocates the highest ever for health and education. We have reduced the Presidential expenditure head; eliminated concessionary vehicle permits; and are changing the culture of political patronage in public employment. With fiscal discipline, economic vision, and correct leadership, we will achieve these within IMF constraints initially, and from 2029 in a freer economic framework.

¶ 08 This Budget begins rebuilding, establishing the most stable democratic government in our history, governing inclusively—North, East, South, West. The foundation for “Prosperous Country – Beautiful Life” over five years is laid. I invite all, across party lines, to join in making this island fully livable. Thank you.