Fri Sep 13 19:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Presidential Aspirant Criticizes Government’s Move to Lift Vehicle Import Ban
**COLOMBO, Sri Lanka -** Presidential hopeful Janaka Ratnayake has harshly criticized the government’s decision to lift the ban on vehicle imports from October 1st. He claims the move will deplete the country’s already strained foreign reserves, accusing the government of attempting to win the upcoming election by “hook or by crook.”
Ratnayake questioned the government’s motives, challenging them to lift the ban immediately if they are truly confident in their decision. He suggested a lottery system for vehicle imports, similar to Singapore, as a more responsible approach given the current economic climate.
He pointed out that vehicle imports normally cost the country over $1 billion annually. Ratnayake believes that President Ranil Wickremesinghe is deliberately making life difficult for his successor by lifting the ban, urging the incumbent to allow the next President to make a proper decision on vehicle imports.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved the gradual lifting of the import ban on motor vehicles and non-motorised goods starting October 1st, following recommendations from the Ministry of Finance. This move is said to be aligned with Sri Lanka’s economic recovery plan under the International Monetary Fund’s Extended Fund Facility program.
First Piper 