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Colombo, August 25 (Daily Mirror) -President Ranil Wickremesinghe invited his rival candidates Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake for a live dicussion with IMF officials and see how they will react to ammendments they have proposed to the agreement which Sri Lanka has signed with the donor agency.
"Both, the National Peoples' Power (NPP) and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) have said they will amend the agreement signed with the IMF. Let's have a live dicussion with the IMF and see how they react to the ammendments," President Wickremesinghe told a UNP convention.
warren Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:05 PM
This is the most sensible thing to do, Hon. Ranil Wickramasinghe. The IMF has a set framework for helping countries to overcome economic woes. Within the generic framework, they may tweak a little to suit the country-specific context. That is, it. There are no "party-specific" IMF frameworks, i.e. to suit a NPP or SJB government. BTW, any NPP government can abrogate the IMP deal and ask their comrades abroad to send $500 per person per month. We can repay all our foreign debt and then continue to import essential goods, if the NPP does not have an idea of import substitution. I think that is the most feasible thing to do.
50 83
Ravanan Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:06 PM
Please stop your dirty politics at least by now.
88 75
DK Sunday, 25 August 2024 11:17 PM
On the contrary, why do not all three contenders put their policy proposals to the test and let the IMF be the arbitrator on whether or not their election promises to the voters are plausible and can be carried through in light of the austere undertakings given by the country to it. Whether the IMF would step into the quagmire of internal politics of the country is another matter, but RW is right in making that call to expose the hollow promises being made to the public.
22 56
Ravi Monday, 26 August 2024 12:04 AM
What's so dirty about it? Why don't you like your leaders to face the challenge?
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Gamini Monday, 26 August 2024 09:25 AM
what is dirty about RW's challenge. SJB and NPP are taking people for a ride promising sun and the moon. None of what they promise is feasible with regards to abrogation of IMF and the freebies that they promise
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Ravi Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:12 PM
Anura and Sajith will come up with a series of lies in the coming days just to avoid this discussion. Lol
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Malinga Jayarathne Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:12 PM
A yorker from Ranil. Well done.
49 92
Don Monday, 26 August 2024 05:57 AM
It was a full-toss man. Did RW have a mandate to sign an agreement valid beyond his caretaker period. No. After the election, the winner will talk IMF and decide which terms and conditions could be fulfilled by Sri Lankan government. It IMF is not agreeable, the next instalment will not be released. That is fine because what IMF is giving is a debt as well. We have to pay back that on top of what we haven’t paid. Let new president who has a mandate decide from whom next debt is taken. You keep your mouth shut without misleading public. You think you are genius but only UNP byyas think so.
6 15
Musthaq Monday, 26 August 2024 10:58 AM
Though RW didn’t have mandate Of people directly, in the current parliament system he became president so can’t blame it as wrong, we didn’t had a suitable time to go for Elections in 2022 and if had would not have add appropriate selection at that moment IMF and government has come to conclusions based on practical revenue collections to run the government expenses if changed it may take 6 months to go for new contract, during that time SL economic picture will be tarnished and we may end up with queues again it’s very serious situation people have to thinks wisely
2 2
Man Monday, 26 August 2024 09:52 AM
A yorker missing stumps. After 26 days, the people selected President can discuss. You don't have to worry.
4 10
Ranjini Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:13 PM
Now the lies of Sajith (Harsha) and Anura will be exposed for everyone to see.
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kavinga Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:14 PM
That's a really good challenge from RW. Let's see how the AKD and SP will respond. Most probably they will try to avoid it.
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saman Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:24 PM
My dear, do you think AKD or SP will need you to talk to IMF? On news, we saw them talking to IMF representatives.
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Tilak Monday, 26 August 2024 09:27 AM
any body can talk with IMF, but you cannot change what is already agreed without further drastic grievances to the people
1 5
Dee Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:24 PM
This will not happen.
1 53
Joshua Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:36 PM
Why should sajith and AKD oblige? They will do their thing if elected. With less than a month to go, let RW dance to his own music and go.
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Good Bye Banku hora who destroyed Sri Lankan economy Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:47 PM
AKD or SP will have a discussion IMF once they have a mandate from the people. Who is Ranil to arrange debates with the IMF. The IMF will not get involved with Sri Lankan politics.
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Adwani Wednesday, 28 August 2024 07:39 AM
@Good Bye Banku hora who destroyed Sri Lanka - SL Economy was destroyed by those whose names were given in the verdict by Court, after filing the petition. Central Bank frauded fund is already recovered by CB by freezing the funds.
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AHM Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:48 PM
They wouldn't , because they are lying on stage to get the votes and some idiots will comment here about something every irrelevant. This country is doomed to fail, because everybody falls for fantasy talks nobody thinks practical here. Anyways good luck Sri Lanka we atleast had a plan but now your unbelievable crave for change will only bring us back down.
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Range Monday, 26 August 2024 06:14 AM
He talks big but still runs the country with loans. The IMF has given loans not freebies and they had to be paid back
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Roni Kaila Somadasa Sunday, 25 August 2024 08:51 PM
Can have it after 21/09/24. How are you making adjustments promising to give subsidies to farmers, fisherman, pensioners salary increases to public servants' expansion of taxable income etc. Are you saying the IMF only needs you to run the country and adjustments can be made only by you. No person is indispensable, and the country is bigger than what you think. Does not the IMF know you are only a caretaker till the elections. Do not mislead the public look at your past record at elections which is a sorry tale,
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SORRY, YOUR DAYS ARE NUMBERED Sunday, 25 August 2024 09:45 PM
WELL SAID, ANURA AND SAJITH ARE CAPABLE OF SPEAKING TO THE IMP, THEY DO NOT NEED A UNELECTED BY THE PEOPLE PRESIDENT TO POKE HIS SNOUT INTO THEIR MEETINGS. GO POKE YR SNOUT INTO HOW THE COUNTRY WAS BROUGHT TO ITS KNEES, INSTEAD OF TRYING TO PLAY SAVIOUR TO THE POOR WHO HAVE SUFFERED LIKE NO OTHER TIME IN THE HISTORYV OF THE COUNTRY. DICTATE TERMS TO YR STOOGES WHO JUMPED SHIP, LITTLE KNOWING THEY WILL ALL DROWN IN POLITICS INCLUDING YOU.
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Pathmaranjan Sunday, 25 August 2024 09:55 PM
IMF will not involve in local politics. This is nonsense from RW.
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Lk Sunday, 25 August 2024 10:39 PM
Ranil is seeking a help from IMF officers to save him from this defeat ..what a poor man is he.. People know all this dirty politics of Ranil.. IMF does not have a mandate to engage in parry politics of any country and it is hoped people will listen to IMF but people are busy something else ..
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Yohan Sunday, 25 August 2024 10:50 PM
Lol. You signed it without a mandate from people. Any new government or leader has the right to discuss and go with a new agreement or amend it. IMF cannot say we will not negotiate as they should understand that they signed the agreement with a person without a mandate. Lol
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Man Monday, 26 August 2024 10:05 AM
Their member, Mr. Peter is ready to discuss with the elected president as he told last time when he visited, SRI Lanka. That's why they wanted to postpone their next schedule visit for their next review.
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Arjuna mahendran Sunday, 25 August 2024 10:50 PM
Let’s debate about bond scam ? Ranil left Arjuna mahendran is still at wedding ?
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Jude Sunday, 25 August 2024 10:51 PM
Let's assume SP and AKD agreed , but IT'S MORALLY WRONG FOR IMF TO TAKE PART IN SUCHA LIVE DISCUSSION. PERIOD. IMF OFFICIALS WILL NEVER TAKE PART IN SUCHA DISCUSSION.
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Kevin Monday, 26 August 2024 06:30 AM
And he knows it. IMF is not interested in propping up politicians.
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Jude Sunday, 25 August 2024 10:57 PM
Any agreement could be amended or changed. No agreement is carved in stone!!! Some agreements are detrimental to the country's economy. And IMF agreements are no exception.
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Jude Sunday, 25 August 2024 11:07 PM
IMF funding SL because they want a handle on SL political and economic situations. Borrowing money not an achievement. IMF lending will cripple over economy further because we can't payback what we are borrowing. That's the main reason SL went bankrupt.
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Vipin B Monday, 26 August 2024 08:55 AM
No Jude, SL went bankrupt as our politicians robbed the country to bankruptcy - it was led by Rajapakses.
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Man Monday, 26 August 2024 10:09 AM
SL was made bankrupt after Pandora grade plundering, mig deals, Greek bonds, Bond scams, etc.
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Udee Silva Monday, 26 August 2024 12:05 AM
Do you think IMF would participate in this kind of nonsensical event? Nonsense!
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Use Silva Monday, 26 August 2024 12:07 AM
Very funny! It was so hard for the people to know what the RW government did discuss with IMF and what were the agreements. Now he is proposing live discussions!
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Darrel Monday, 26 August 2024 12:09 AM
Why NPPers and SJBers oppose this idea here? Why don't they like their leaders to involve in an open discussion? So you guys really think they are lying or they are not confident enough to face the challenge? Why are you trying to defend them even before they respond? This is hillarious. Lol
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Charles Monday, 26 August 2024 12:25 AM
One party says IMF terms
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Jude Monday, 26 August 2024 12:35 AM
Most Lankans have no idea about souverign bonds , LIBOR and American Bonds and etc. I remember, politicians were bragging about when SL souverign bond issues get over subscribe!! People didn't know that the government gave 6.875% interest rate on souverign bonds when the LIBOR is less than 3% and so is American Bonds coupon rate. In another words SL government gave More than double the prevailing market rates.
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Know All Monday, 26 August 2024 10:35 AM
And this was by big talker Ranil between 2015-20 when he took the biggest amount of SBs.
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wickrama Wijayasiri Monday, 26 August 2024 01:00 AM
What a stupid idea. Why bring IMF officers in to your election campaign. Time to do this has passed. It was in 2022 the invitation should have gone out. Besides IMF is NOT GOD! The main issue is that because of the corrupt politicians the country went bankrupt. You are still pampering and protecting the crooks without bringing them to the books. We are sick of this and you have to go home with the new 'Frogs'
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Citizen A Monday, 26 August 2024 01:10 AM
It’s a good challenge provided IMF is agreeable to such a live debate with IMF representative’s role in the debate is specified and worthwhile from public perspective. If not given the track record of our politicians, they will thrash the debate with useless arguments and lies just to fool public, will be a waste of resources and time!
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FredSnR Monday, 26 August 2024 02:30 AM
This may be good for politics but it is not reality.We need to have that election.The issues are very clear, rising cost of living, youth unemployment, inability to balance budgets or control expenditure, lawlessness to combat.Then let the elected leader negotiate with the IMF with the peoples mandate behind them.The IMF is not a charity. The Big Powers are behind them, they have their own agendas to fulfil.It is not a free lunch.
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L Jaya Monday, 26 August 2024 02:58 AM
I am disgusted with the comments made by some who talk in favour of RW. I believe they are insane. RW would have organised the meeting with IMF well before election was announced. Now appears to be a political game.
2 4
R Monday, 26 August 2024 03:02 AM
This unelected master debating president is the failure of the nation. He let the minorities down, let the my nation down ultimately he put his trousers down to show us how much he has done in the mile high club
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Zak Monday, 26 August 2024 03:21 AM
Absolute stupidity on the part of RW and sad to see the naivety of most people who have commented on this.. IMF has nothing to do with internal politics. Stupidity at its best on the part of RW and so called English speaking educated citizens
4 6
Dan Monday, 26 August 2024 03:34 AM
If he was serious he could have invited them earlier. Not a month before an election. These are gimmicks.
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Ram P Monday, 26 August 2024 05:08 AM
How RW resurrected our economy. The $$$ debt was so many Billions and in the two years he was President the $$$ debt increased by over 10 Billion. Now planning to sell Telecom, Hilton Hotel and many other assets hiding their real valuations and placing lesser values. Recently he boasted that some countries have offered him $$$ 10 Billion as loans. When is he going to stop living on loans and selling assets?
3 6
Ram P Monday, 26 August 2024 05:18 AM
Ranil has 27 Advisors, 22 Co-ordinating Secretaries and Directors, 13 Director Generals, Sagala controls media and few other areas with 30 advisors all paid by the public purse. The list is circulating in Whatsapp. Many names are Ranil's close friends and associates. Some do not have any qualification to advice on the subjects assigned. I am sure Sajith
1 3
Onlooker Monday, 26 August 2024 11:53 AM
And advisors Batagoda and Paskaralingam were names that appeared in the Panama Papers. So can Ranil go for Rajapakses looting when his advisors are with off shore accounts.
0 1
hoodwinker Monday, 26 August 2024 05:21 AM
It is very clear who the winner is, already diplomats are inviting Anura
3 4
Waco Monday, 26 August 2024 05:29 AM
They will cross the Bridge once they come to it.
2 2
Ima Monday, 26 August 2024 05:43 AM
After many years in parliament your party lost all except one national list seat in 2019, why so shameful defeat,its become your deceitful traitorous act of robbing central bank, its because your uninterrupted borrowing from foreign countries targeting election and in case of defeat ,to pass the headache to in coming government,your reign may be good for your chums but not for sake of country, you must go as soon as possible
2 5
Amaree Monday, 26 August 2024 06:06 AM
Let us see how IMF respond with regard to CENTRAL BANK BOND SCAM, the worst corruption committed by the then government. Central Bank being the nerve system of the economy, unethically UNP made huge profit thru the sale of bonds.
1 4
Kevin Monday, 26 August 2024 06:24 AM
There's no need. The JVP and the SJB have already had discussions with the IMF independently.
1 5
Outstation People Are Really Struggling Monday, 26 August 2024 06:24 AM
Why should NPP pay for all the misdeeds of the current and previous regimes? People like you who are in the Colombo region are encouraging these kinds of regimes to continue with their high expenditures, high perks, corrupt ways of governing the country and encouraging them to continue taking loans year after year. Need to put a stop of these malpractices and go on austerity drive to weed out these corrupt so called leaders once and for all by voting in new parties. Ranil if elected will continue with his status quo and won’t take action by bringing to justice the suspected criminals which have embezzled a substantial amount over the years.
2 3
Vajira Monday, 26 August 2024 06:29 AM
Why would you debate with the IMF?. IMF is not a political entity in Sri Lanka. Whoever wins will have to work with the IMF. AKD has already said that he would work with the IMF for solutions. That's enough. This so called debate is just politics from Ranil. Ranil has done nothing but got the repayment of loans postponed. Nothing else!. We are still a bankrupted country!
2 4
Kevin Monday, 26 August 2024 06:29 AM
Not true. In fact SJB and JVP independently discussed their own agendas with the IMF. That's how it works. IMF is okay with any path that achieves its overall requirements. SLPP plan (Ranil's plan) is just one path.
1 5
Raj Perera Monday, 26 August 2024 06:44 AM
That’s a good suggestion from Ranil. We should ask following questions from IMF:- 1. Why getting rid of corruption is not an IMF condition?; 2. Why recovering stolen public money is not an IMF condition?; 3. Why the dashboard of the progress of implementing IMF condition was not up and running by the government? However, IMF is still happy with the progress of implementation of their conditions; 4. Why it is not a condition for the government to cut unnecessary/wasteful expenditure? (i.e. giving jobs to UNP members as President’s advisors, Ranil’s foreign trips
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mina Monday, 26 August 2024 06:53 AM
We all could remember that there was a much interest of all the country men when Daily Mirror arranged the debate among Ranil Sajith and Anura. Only Anura accepted the invitation and gave dates too for the debate. RW got away saying that he could do it in the parliament while Sajith got a way saying that the fist there should be a debate in between economic councils of SJB and NPP. The challenge of Ranil shouldn't be taken seriously. He should be put to political garbage can on the 21 of September as that is the best place for him to spend the rest of his life.
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ignatius Monday, 26 August 2024 07:01 AM
POLITICIANS can talk big all over world when not in power. Sometimes they can talk hoping to be the big shot (when in power). The bottom line - Sri Lanka is in debt. Caused by all politicians. Spend according to your means. Ranil is trying to do something. Thats your best bet. Ex Sri lankan. Lots of Family members still there.
1 2
Jatika arassava Monday, 26 August 2024 07:24 AM
Why not live televise cabinet meetings?
1 4
Tax Payer Monday, 26 August 2024 07:24 AM
This crafty old man can only use deception to create some news to make himself look better. IMF representatives have already had discussion with those who think are worthy in Sri Lanka, so firstly agree with the IMF on your suggestion and make a formal request to the other candidates Ranil. Your distortion may have worked in history but today its is relevant only for your supporters to applaud. So, get serious even at this late stage of your campaign and make yourself credible.
1 6
Willows Drive Monday, 26 August 2024 07:33 AM
They already had discussions with IMF, ????
1 3
Friendly Advisor Monday, 26 August 2024 08:13 AM
SP and AKD were elected by the people and they have all the right to appear on behalf of the people in front of any international forum. Unfortunately, the president hasn't earned that right from the people.
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M Fernando Monday, 26 August 2024 08:32 AM
On the contrary, it is a desperate and silly thing to do. What leader in what country invites rival candidates to discuss matters with donor agencies The IMF will not tolerate these theatrics. This is a "public consumption" material for the local chokkas to consume and say "oh, how great is our leader, RW !"
1 5
sathasivam Monday, 26 August 2024 08:45 AM
srilankans will decide on the future corruption free ruler not RW or IMF
1 6
Terrence K Monday, 26 August 2024 08:50 AM
Is there any point in inviting especially Anura for a discussion with the IMF since he is out of his ruckus and the IMF officials will wonder whether Sri Lanka are having POL BOORUWAS who are Presidential candidates as the utterances by this guy in adopting policies contrary to the IMF will result in a breakdown of the whole economy. On the other hand Sajith should be careful and have the acumen in delving into each clause of the agreement and any proposed changes contemplated seeking assistance of Harsha and the team otherwise the agreements signed between the government and the IMF could derail. Let clear wisdom be given by the Almighty God to fleshly minds who will not understand!!!!!!
4 3
Seeya Monday, 26 August 2024 08:58 AM
This is good, let everyone be transparent. But I dont think IMF also believes in transparency. They are also accepting all the lies everyone tells them. Would be a good platform.
0 4
Nimal Monday, 26 August 2024 08:58 AM
Ranil, more relevant will be to have a live debate or discussion on the economic strategies of each candidate as being proposed by the media. IMF, and loans maybe the only program of your strategy but Sajith and AKD consider IMF only as one facet in their different economic programs. Besides, as you know very well, the IMF doesn't get involved in beneficiary or donor country politics. Please stop bluffing around throwing these peanuts which are only good for your own hangers-on to gobble up and cheer you from the sidelines.
1 3
Ranjith Monday, 26 August 2024 09:13 AM
Sajith and Anura are going neck to neck, To stop Anura winning the election, people should vote for Sajith , those who having fear Anura winning the election this is the only way out, not having a debate, anyway Ranil will loose the election surrounded by criminals and old age politicians.
4 14
Ranjith Monday, 26 August 2024 09:16 AM
Better to move forward with SJB ratherthan voting for Ranil so no point having a debate with Ranil, debate should be between Anura and Sajith.
2 5
Damith Monday, 26 August 2024 09:42 AM
IF anyone tries to renegotiate with IMF the consequences will be drastic. Everything will come to a stand still until these negations' conclude. And what in return will SJB or NPP offer to increase concessions that they are promising the voters. They have no clue. If one were to renegotiate with the IMF then you also have to renegotiate with WB, ADB, Sovereign Bond holders, Paris Club-China.(since China refused to negotiate with SL) Just image how ling that would take and what would be the plight of the citizens until this drama concludes. We need stability and continuity, not a revolution right now
1 1
Bernard Jayatilake Monday, 26 August 2024 09:53 AM
Why do you drag others for the IMF loan mess which you signed with the latter?
1 6
Harindra Monday, 26 August 2024 09:59 AM
A real leader should be able face tough challenges without giving lame excuses. After all they are going to lead this country.
0 2
R Monday, 26 August 2024 09:59 AM
Unelected master debater invites all folks in his double bed to mater debate in front of the parliament. He’s lover , love machine, immoral leader who always spending so much time to make my country bankrupt and activate his love machine.
1 5
Mohammed Zacky AM Monday, 26 August 2024 10:14 AM
This is a good opportunity for the people to choose their best candidate
0 3
Mohammed Zacky AM Monday, 26 August 2024 10:14 AM
This is a good opportunity for the people to choose their best candidate
0 2
Razik Monday, 26 August 2024 10:16 AM
Most of the comments are ether uneducated or ignorant. In history when was the last time IMF got involved in local politics in the world.
2 6
To Know All Monday, 26 August 2024 02:08 PM
Oh such intemperate language. Everyone has self dignity. This is a public forum and everyone is entitled to his view. Even the Bible says since you sit there in the judgment seat observing all these shenanigans, you can afford to humor an occasional fool who happens along. Wise do not judge others.
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Ranjith Monday, 26 August 2024 10:31 AM
Ranil is looser there is nothing to debate with a person who ruin the UNP and worked hand in hand with Rajapakses to bankrupt our country,
0 5
Ranjith Monday, 26 August 2024 10:31 AM
Ranil is looser there is nothing to debate with a person who ruin the UNP and worked hand in hand with Rajapakses to bankrupt our country,
0 0
Onlooker Monday, 26 August 2024 10:40 AM
Bunkum from Ranil the shyster as usual.
0 0
Man Monday, 26 August 2024 10:51 AM
@ Ravi; What is the purpose of accepting invitations who disregard the supreme constitution by breaching it and disregarding the court orders, etc.?
0 3
seyon Monday, 26 August 2024 11:05 AM
with the notorious HIRU TV supporting Sajith ,no one will vote for SJP as such AKD will have a cake walk
2 0
Hard Truth Monday, 26 August 2024 11:13 AM
The invite from RW for AKD and SP, show much is he polictical junk now. All he can do mislead the general public after polls date was annouced. It is immoral to call them for live discussion in this situation.
0 0
Sathialingam Monday, 26 August 2024 01:28 PM
This is Deceptive RW's 'Moda Choon' trying to take reader's too in his stupid ride. No respected international organisations nor governments nor public servants take part Directly in a countries election process. Let the Cheat organise and get the IMF to invite AKD, Sajith to come forward. Have some respect for your country's citizens atleast in your unsuitable position as President RW. Don't take citizens for Fools anymore.
0 0
Terrence K Monday, 26 August 2024 02:13 PM
@Razik - Mahadenamutta shocking to know that as stated by you the comments are from uneducated or ignorant. The IMF will never get involved in local politics but will try to ensure that the funds advanced by all creditor countries and others are guaranteed repayment through the debt restructing method which the government has already given their consent. At a juncture like this where the country is at the threshold of a Presidential election with the current news streaming of changes that will occur to the IMF agreement all creditors are anxiously waiting to know what will happen to their funds in case that some Radicalist takes over the reigns of the country like one of the contenders whose history party has been stained in Blood. Upto now we see clear judgement prevailing however even the locals are not certain about the future as anything is possible by hook or by crook by revolutionaries who might not stand a chance through democratic methods may adopt Aragalayas!!!!!!!!
0 0
Use Silva Monday, 26 August 2024 02:55 PM
This comment is a prime example for political ignorance and deftness of a typical so called “educated “ Sri Lankan voter. Instead of analyzing the value and feasibility of the president’s proposal, people tend to entertain skirmish sound bites
0 0
Bernard Jayatilake Monday, 26 August 2024 03:56 PM
It is a ploy adopted by him to challenge others for a debate of trivial matter to the electorate as the IMF deal is his baby and is he unashamedly asking the other two major candidates to carry the baby on his behalf when there are important, significant and do-or-die burning issues confronting the nation and this attitude can be compared to a desperate person in his waning hours trying to hide his mistakes and failures.
0 0
Maxwell Tuesday, 27 August 2024 09:56 AM
It is always the one losing that wants debates. So no prizes for guessing!
0 0
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