Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries Mahinda Amaraweera has clarified that the government's planned salary increase for public employees, set to take effect in January 2025, is not an election related promise but a component of a long-term strategy. Speaking at a women's conference in Agunakolapalasse on September 8, Amaraweera refuted claims that the increment is linked to the upcoming presidential election.

He said that the decision to increase salaries and cost of living allowances was made to address the economic difficulties faced by public sector employees. He noted that the announcement was intended to be included in the upcoming budget presentation, though delays may occur due to the election cycle.