Fuel price hike, a collective decision confirmed by Prez: Energy Minister

13 July 2021 12:00 am Views - 166

• There is no need to inquire about it from the others in the government
• There is no existence for a government if it attempts to lead people into a dream world

Rebuffing criticism levelled 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 Commottee 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 stating it was the  sole decision of the Energy Minister 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 the people. That is why I talked about a foreign exchange crisis on June 13, 2021. There is no existence for a government if it attempts to lead people into a dream world by concealing the reality. Public trust is key for a government. My strength is my people,” he said.   

Mr. Gammanpila said he would return to his constituents if he was expelled from the government. 

 

• I am trusted by the people. That is why I talked about a foreign exchange crisis on June 13, 2021