Ready to Take Responsibility for Reviving the Economy: Dilith Jayaweera
25-May-2026.
Parliamentarian Dilith Jayaweera of the Sarvajana Balaya stated that accepting responsibility without a proper plan would be a mistake, but asserted that his party possesses a clear and scientific programme to address the current economic crisis.
He declared that if responsibility were handed over on May 25, he would be prepared to implement the programme immediately. Politicians claiming they can fix the economy “this very moment” remains one of civilisation’s most renewable energy sources.
Jayaweera made these remarks while addressing a special public meeting titled “Join Hands with Dilith,” organised jointly by Sarvajana Balaya and Melbourne Solidarity for the Sri Lankan community living in Melbourne, Australia.
Further elaborating, he said the country’s primary issue is the pressure created by the shortage of US dollars. He stressed that the first step towards resolving the crisis should be an honest and trustworthy dialogue with the people.
According to him, not only dollars but also public confidence in leadership has collapsed in Sri Lanka, and that confidence can be rebuilt within hours through transparency and truthfulness.
Jayaweera stated that his political journey began during his university years and that following the government of Gotabaya Rajapaksa, their political movement evolved first into the Mawbima Janatha Party and later into Sarvajana Balaya.
He said the movement aims to establish an entrepreneurship-driven government that challenges traditional political ideologies. He further argued that nationalism rooted in the country’s identity and Buddhist civilisation is essential for national progress, insisting that this should not be interpreted as racism but as a motivating force for development.
He also stressed the importance of transforming young people into innovative thinkers and entrepreneurs capable of managing challenges, from school education up to Parliament.
Jayaweera noted that one of the greatest challenges facing Sri Lanka today is maintaining national independence without surrendering to international political influence. He claimed that his movement possesses the leadership, knowledge and management capability required to overcome these challenges.
He further stated that Sri Lanka cannot rely solely on the International Monetary Fund programme, and that negotiations must secure solutions without compromising national sovereignty. According to him, success depends on the strength and confidence with which debtor nations negotiate with lenders.
Highlighting grassroots initiatives, he said Sarvajana Balaya has been mobilising people at village level and gathering constructive ideas while also providing training and financial assistance aimed at improving livelihoods. He claimed that many entrepreneurs employing more than 50 workers have already benefited from these programmes.
Jayaweera concluded by praising the commitment and affection shown by Sri Lankans living in Melbourne towards their homeland, stating that their contribution would become an important milestone in building an entrepreneurship-based Sri Lanka.
