Opposition MP Namal Rajapaksa alleged that the National People’s Power (NPP) government came to power through “endless lies” and had failed to deliver the system change and new political culture it promised to the people.

Addressing a public gathering, Rajapaksa said that the government had deceived the younger generation by campaigning on promises of political reform but had instead adopted what he described as an outdated style of governance after assuming office.

He said growing public dissatisfaction with the government was evident from the presence of people from different political backgrounds at the event, including those who had voted for the NPP at the last election.

Rajapaksa also praised the political legacy of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, claiming that the political movement led by him had made the greatest contribution to the country despite criticism from opponents.

The SLPP MP accused the government of failing to address the country’s worsening economic and public health challenges, claiming that factories in industrial zones were shutting down due to rising production costs and taxes.

He contrasted the current administration with the previous Rajapaksa government, saying that during the COVID-19 pandemic their government had protected jobs by reducing taxes and ensuring factories remained operational.

Referring to the ongoing dengue outbreak, Rajapaksa pointed out that Colombo and Gampaha districts were experiencing the highest number of dengue cases in Sri Lanka’s history. He alleged that hospitals were overcrowded, with multiple patients sharing beds, and accused the government of failing to provide adequate medicines, recruit doctors and hospital staff, or carry out timely mosquito control measures.

He alleged that the government had failed to implement an effective strategy to tackle medicine shortages despite claiming to have strong state finances.

Rajapaksa also accused the government of targeting local entrepreneurs while protecting businessmen with political connections. He claimed that excessive taxation and legal action against business owners were discouraging investment and worsening the cost of living.

Commenting on recent public opinion surveys, Rajapaksa questioned reports suggesting high approval ratings for the President, arguing that such findings were inconsistent with reports that many Sri Lankans were struggling with poverty and hunger.

Calling for political change, Rajapaksa urged people to unite and build what he described as a modern political movement that respected the country’s culture, identity and religious values while embracing technology and creating better opportunities for future generations.

He said only a political force that respected the country’s identity, culture and people would be capable of protecting the nation and ensuring a better future.