SL Opposition minister Namal Rajapaksa Criticizes Past Governments for Failing to Place Sri Lanka on the Global Map

By Lions Roar News Political Desk

KIRIBATHGODA, SRI LANKA (Monday, January 19, 2026) — Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa has leveled sharp criticism against successive governments, claiming that past administrations focused solely on fulfilling basic duties rather than strategically positioning Sri Lanka on the world map.

Speaking to the media in the Kiribathgoda area today, the MP argued that while massive development projects from the past decade are often criticized, current leaders have failed to understand how to effectively utilize them for national growth.

🏗️ Development vs. Utilization

Rajapaksa defended the large-scale infrastructure projects initiated during previous tenures, suggesting that the current political discourse is missing the point.

• Lack of Study: He noted that critics are quick to find fault with “mega-projects” but lack the vision or the study required to turn those assets into economic engines.
• The “Global Map” Vision: According to Rajapaksa, leadership should not just be about managing day-to-day responsibilities but about creating a brand and a strategic presence for Sri Lanka internationally.

📉 Tax Burdens and Investment Stagnation

The MP also took aim at the current economic climate, specifically targeting the high tax rates and bureaucratic hurdles that he claims are stifling the country’s recovery.

• Job Creation: “New jobs are not created under an unlimited tax burden,” Rajapaksa stated, highlighting the pressure on the private sector and the youth.
• Investor Confidence: He argued that the introduction of “unnecessary regulations and laws” acts as a deterrent to foreign direct investment (FDI).
• Historical Context: He claimed that the lessons of the last ten years have shown that a country cannot attract investors through restrictive legal frameworks and high costs.

📊 Namal Rajapaksa’s Key Points