Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP S.M Marrikkar says his party will work towards defeating the government's proposed tax reforms. He said the party would vote against the proposed tax hikes in parliament. “As representatives of the people, we cannot vote for these exorbitant tax hikes at a time when the price of goods have increased significantly. We will not vote for these proposed tax percentages,” he said.

The MP, who is also the media spokesman of the SJB made these comments at a press conference held at the Opposition leader’s office in Colombo yesterday.

“When Gotabaya Rajapaksa reduced taxes we pointed out that this was an incorrect decision and that it would negatively affect the economy. Therefore the SJB believes taxes must be increased. But any increase must be fair and reasonable.” he said.

According to the MP, the people are not able to bear these proposed taxes. “As the Minister of Finance, the President must reduce these proposed percentages. If not we will block this from being passed in parliament.” he said. The MP also warned the party will ensure the country’s middle class takes to the streets in protest if the President fails to heed their calls. He accused the President of attempting to increase government revenue by placing an increased tax burden on the people and also by selling government assets. “It does not appear the government is currently formulating a long-term plan with a particular aim for the purpose of increasing revenue,” he noted.

Marikkar proposed the government must look into other alternative revenue-making methods such as the promotion of medical tourism in Sri Lanka and the ICT sector. “Instead of a proper plan, President Wickremesinghe is attempting to address the country’s issues through a short-term solution that heavily burdens the country’s people,” he said.