Shock to Sri Lankan government employees, there will be no further increase in salary this year; Wickremesinghe clarified the situation
Wickremesinghe acknowledged the ongoing stress on the economy. He said that providing increased benefits and allowances in previous programs has led to a shortage of additional funds.
Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that there will be no salary increase for government sector employees this year. He warned that raising salaries without proper planning could weaken the government ahead of the presidential and general elections.
According to a news portal, 75-year-old Wickremesinghe is expected to contest for re-election to the presidency. He acknowledged the ongoing stress on the economy. He said that providing increased benefits and allowances in previous programs has led to a shortage of additional funds.
Wickremesinghe highlighted the salary increase of Rs 10,000 in Sri Lanka and the additional benefits implemented under the Aswasuma program. The report said he stressed the need for fiscal responsibility and warned that further salary increases without proper planning could weaken the government.
Wickremesinghe stressed the need to prioritize national stability ahead of upcoming elections. He announced the formation of a committee to review salary adjustments. The report said their recommendations would be incorporated into the 2025 budget, paving the way for a possible salary increase next year.
The President said his administration's approach would benefit many people. He reiterated the importance of focusing on the upcoming elections and said other parties could not prioritize economic stability effectively.
The next presidential election is scheduled to be held between mid-September and mid-October.
