Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, addressing Parliament yesterday, raised several critical issues affecting various sectors, urging the government to take immediate action to resolve them.

Speaking during the debate on the government’s ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ project, Premadasa highlighted pressing concerns, ranging from the law and order situation, to unemployment and public services.

Premadasa pointed to the alarming increase in homicides, citing Police Department data that revealed 101 shooting incidents and 60 deaths in 2024 alone. He emphasised the need for the government to prioritise law and order to curb these rising threats.

Despite the introduction of an online system, passport issuance remained a significant issue, with long delays persisting, Premadasa said, calling for effective solutions to streamline the process and reduce the burden on citizens.

The Opposition Leader highlighted a loss of approximately five billion rupees due to uncollected VAT and social security taxes on coconut oil imports since January 2023. He urged the government to address this issue promptly to prevent further financial losses.

Premadasa raised concerns about port congestion, with over 4,000 uncleared containers causing delays and forcing ships to bypass the Colombo Port. He stressed the need for quick solutions to ensure smooth operations and maintain Sri Lanka’s competitiveness as a regional shipping hub.

The elderly community has been adversely affected by reduced interest rates on savings, which have dropped from 15% to 7-8%, and an increase in withholding tax from 5% to 10%. Premadasa urged the government to reinstate fair interest rates for senior citizens.

The jeep safari industry, a vital part of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, faces potential threats that could harm livelihoods and the broader tourism economy. Premadasa called on the government to protect these operators and ensure their continued contribution to the industry.

With 35,000 to 40,000 unemployed graduates and 22,000 Development Officers awaiting proper job opportunities, Premadasa emphasized the need for job creation and fulfillment of government promises. He also highlighted delays in recruiting teachers and student nurses, urging expedited action to address these gaps.

Premadasa called for improved allowances, service conditions, and retirement programmes for Grama Niladhari officers, who play a crucial role in local governance.

Despite promises to reduce electricity bills by one-third, recent statements suggest potential increases. Premadasa urged the government to honour its commitment and reduce tariffs, especially given the Ceylon Electricity Board reported excessive profits, the Opposition leader said.