Former Deputy Leader of the United National Party and Member of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake raised concerns in Parliament over the role of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Sri Lanka’s investment landscape, particularly in the context of ongoing support to help the country recover from economic collapse.
Speaking during a parliamentary session, Karunanayake questioned the government regarding issues arising from IMF interventions, especially those reportedly linked to agreements signed within the Colombo Port City project.
The MP asked the ruling party to clarify the nature of the problems associated with these agreements and highlighted the need for transparency and national oversight in such matters.
Karunanayake stressed that while IMF assistance is crucial during times of crisis, the government must maintain its independence and not rely solely on the Fund for decision-making. He urged the government to actively engage with the IMF to find ways to boost investments and reduce expenditures, rather than remaining passive.
He further emphasized that key economic strategies—including taxation policies, investment promotion, and expenditure control—should not be entirely outsourced to the IMF, calling for proactive and independent leadership in navigating the country’s economic recovery.
