📈 IMF Consults Opposition Leaders Amidst Concerns Over EFF Impact

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation met with Sri Lankan Opposition leaders to discuss the ongoing Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program. The meeting, presided over by Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salih, focused on the socio-economic implications of the current fiscal adjustments. • Key Representation: IMF Mission Chief Evan Papageorgiou and Resident Representative Martha Woldemichael met with MPs including Dilith Jayaweera and Ravi Karunanayake. Notably, leaders from the SJB and SLPP were absent. • Economic Concerns: MP Jayaweera highlighted a strong public perception that the EFF program disproportionately burdens ordinary citizens. He argued that the current framework prioritizes creditor interests over national growth. • Growth & Strategy: Concerns were raised regarding the lack of a visible pathway for sustainable economic growth or national wealth creation. • Fiscal Discipline vs. Relief: While the IMF noted improved fiscal discipline under the current administration, the Opposition critiqued the government for failing to provide meaningful relief to the public despite its stated policy positions.