Government to Provide Rs. 41 Billion Fuel Subsidy for Three Months, President Says

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced that the government will introduce a fuel subsidy for the next three months, with a Cabinet paper on the proposal scheduled to be presented on Monday (28).

Speaking at a public rally in Gampaha on Sunday (27), President Dissanayake said Rs. 41 billion had been allocated for the subsidy programme.

The subsidy will cover fuel purchases during October, November and December, according to the President.

The announcement comes as Sri Lanka continues to face pressure from higher global energy and commodity prices, with rising fuel costs adding to pressure on household expenses. The government is also continuing its engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on measures to manage the economic impact of higher global prices.

During its recent discussions with Sri Lanka, the IMF said any fiscal support introduced in response to higher fuel and commodity prices should be temporary, targeted towards vulnerable groups and supported by careful costing.

Addressing the rally, President Dissanayake also said the government continued to enjoy public support despite claims made by political opponents.

He said political power ultimately rested with the people and argued that a government could not be removed as long as it retained public support.

The President also rejected allegations that the government’s investigations into suspected corruption were politically motivated. He said there was no intention to seek revenge against individuals and noted that some investigations were complex and required assistance from international authorities.

Dissanayake said the government’s actions were aimed at pursuing accountability and addressing corruption rather than engaging in political retaliation.