Ali Sabry PC

The Sri Lankan economy is at its worst since gaining independence but a Finance Minister is yet to be appointed. It was widely reported that former Finance Minister Ali Sabry PC refused to accept the Ministry after violent mobs targeted his residence.

Harsha De Silva

Speaking to the media on Tuesday (24), Harsha De Silva said “I am a politician with a background in Economics, why would I refuse to take up the position of Minister of Finance in this country? Why did I refuse the position even though it was offered multiple times? It would be a personal victory if I take this up. But it will become a victory for the country only if I take it under a national government”

Furthermore, he stated that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has to set a timeline for his dismissal and ensure constitutional amendments are made.

“Why can’t these leaders understand? why can’t they understand that the solution to this problem can only be found when we all unite. What are our leaders doing? Be it Gotabaya, Ranil, Sajith, Sambandan or Anura must take more responsibility as party leaders. I am hundred per cent ready to commit but only under a National Government.”, he added.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa

Co-Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Kanchana Wijesekera stated that President Gtoabaya Rajapaksa will act as the Finance Minister until a Finance Minister is appointed. He said this during the Cabinet Decisions Press Briefing on Tuesday (24)

Prime Minister Ranil Wirckremesinghe

Speaking exclusively to News Cutter, an aide close to the Prime Minister said that the Finance Ministry portfolio was offered to opposition Parliamentarian and Economist Harsha De Silva on multiple occasions. According to him, Harsha’s refusal is tied with the position of his party. The Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s decided to not take up any positions under the presidency of Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

“What’s the use if Harsha Chickens out in the hour of need? the position was reserved for him since day one of the new government. Unless otherwise, the leader will take it up”, said he, adding speculation that if Dr Harsha refuses to accept the position, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe himself will take up the portfolio.

CBSL Governor Dr Nandalal Weerasinghe also to be replaced?

He also revealed that if the Prime Minister is to take up the portfolio, the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Nandalal Weerasinghe will also be replaced. A likely candidate would be the former CBSL Governor Indrajith Coomaraswamy who previously served under the Good Governance Government.

Dr Nandalal Weerasinghe & Dr Indrajith Coomaraswamy