Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Nalin Hewage has come under criticism following his claim that Sri Lanka’s Treasury held only US$20 million when the National People’s Power (NPP) Government assumed office.
Speaking at a public meeting in Galle ahead of the Local Government Elections, Hewage said the current administration had increased Treasury reserves to US$6.19 billion.
“The applause doesn’t seem enough. When we have raised 6,190 million dollars to an account which only had 20 million dollars, there should be more applause,” he said.
The statement has drawn backlash, with critics pointing out that Treasury reserves were closer to US$6 billion at the time the previous government left office.
Social media users also challenged Hewage’s separate claim that there were no gas or fuel supplies when the NPP took over. (Islandnews)
