Former Deputy Leader of the United National Party, MP Ravi Karunanayake, has accused the ruling National People’s Party of breaking its promise to abolish the controversial Parate law, despite having come to power on that very pledge.
Speaking to the media, Karunanayake said that small and medium-sized entrepreneurs (SMEs), who turned out in large numbers to support the government during the elections, now feel betrayed. “What has happened is the complete opposite of what the people expected,” he said.
The MP emphasized that although similar financial procedures exist in other Asian countries, banks in those nations do not impose such rigid and punitive regulations. In contrast, he argued, Sri Lankan SMEs continue to suffer under stringent financial constraints.
Karunanayake stressed the need to protect small and medium-sized enterprises, especially during a time of economic hardship. “It is essential that the government supports SMEs instead of burdening them with excessive rules,” he said.
However, he also noted that there are some who are exploiting the current leniency in regulations. “These individuals should not be granted amnesty, as it is not the fault of genuine entrepreneurs that the economy collapsed,” he added.
The MP’s remarks reflect growing frustration among business owners who feel abandoned by a government that had once vowed to ease their burdens.
