Member of Parliament, Dr. Harsha de Silva, has voiced concerns over the recent involvement of former British Prime Minister David Cameron in Sri Lanka's PortCity project. In a tweet posted earlier today, Dr. de Silva welcomed Cameron's assistance but stressed the importance of using such support judiciously, citing past issues with contracted lobbyists.
The tweet began with a reference to the controversial Nivard Cabral-Zuberi fiasco, where millions were allegedly paid without proper accountability, serving as a cautionary tale for the government. Dr. de Silva raised questions about the rebranding of PortCity as a financial center, given the country's current financial challenges, including a default rating and financial instability.
Dr. de Silva proposed an alternative approach, suggesting the establishment of a 'Colombo Knowledge City' instead. He emphasized capitalizing on Sri Lanka's strengths in IT and AI services and fostering knowledge transfer as a means to boost the nation's economic prospects.
One of the key concerns raised in the tweet was the potential for cannibalization within the PortCity development. Dr. de Silva pointed out the significant tax exemptions offered to primary and secondary investors in PortCity, spanning up to 25 years with minimal tax obligations for the following decade. This, he argued, could create an uneven playing field, disadvantaging businesses and individuals operating outside of PortCity who face numerous tax burdens.
Dr. de Silva called for a fair tax system that treats all individuals and businesses equitably, emphasizing its importance for the overall prosperity of Sri Lanka. He expressed support for the PortCity project but urged a reconsideration of certain policies, particularly mentioning the online safety bill.
The online safety bill, which has faced criticism for its potential impact on freedom of expression, has been a contentious issue in Sri Lanka. Dr. de Silva's tweet implies that such policies could deter potential investors and hinder the success of the PortCity project.
