Sri Lanka’s president Gotabaya Rajapaksa lashed out at the country’s Central Bank as he met with senior officials in Colombo today, demanding action within 24 hours as the economic crisis on the island continues to worsen.
In a press release from the President’s Media Division, Rajapaksa slammed the bank, stating it had “not extended its support” and demanded they “explain reasons for their failure”.
“The Central Bank of ours has not put forward a single proposal to rebuild the economy,” said Rajapaksa. “The Government will have to take the blame for the economic slowdown due to this serious negligence of duty on the part of the Central Bank.”
Rajapaksa told Central Bank officials that he had presented a “mechanism” which they have failed to implement. “If you are unable to follow it, present me your version of the mechanism by tomorrow morning,” he said.
“There is no management there,” he continued. “All at the Central Bank are economic specialists drawing very high salaries.” Rajapaksa also pointed out that “officials who worked at the Central Bank during the scandalous bond scam still hold their positions”.
“In this context, a place like the Central Bank where the top economic experts are rendering their service, isn’t it your responsibility to present a proposal to conquer this situation. What have you submitted in this regard. What is the guidance you have given me? There is nothing and you have not come forward to support me.”
“If you are not on the same page with my suggestions please give me your strategies to revive our economy by tomorrow morning.”
The official press release concludes with Rajapaksa telling the Central Bank officials,
“If what I say is wrong, do not hesitate to let me know”.
