12 July 2021 02:44 pm Views - 1271
Rebuffing criticism leveled against him on the recent price hike, Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila said President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had confirmed in writing that the price revision was a collective decision by the Cost of Living chaired by him and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.
The Minister said there was no need to inquire about it from others in the government. He made these remarks at a press conference today.
The previous day, Transport Minister Gamini Lokuge hit out at Mr. Gammanpila saying it was his sole decision to increase the fuel prices.
"If somebody disputes it, it is nothing but disputing what the President says. I have told the truth to the people. I am trusted by people. That is why I talked about a foreign exchange crisis on June 13, 2021. There is no existence for a government if it tries to lead people into a dream world by concealing reality. Public trust is key for a government. My strength is my people," he said.
He said he would return to his constituents if he was expelled from the government. (Kelum Bandara)