Former Minister and actor Ranjan Ramanayake has praised President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as “extremely frugal,” noting that this quality has had a positive impact on the country.
He made these remarks while speaking at the inauguration of a new business premises in Galle on Sunday.
Ramanayake stated that if Sri Lanka successfully manages its current challenges—especially those arising from global geopolitical tensions—the President would have a strong chance of winning the next presidential election.
He emphasized that true leadership is demonstrated during difficult times, saying that a capable leader is one who can steer a ship through a storm. According to him, that moment of testing has now come for the President amid ongoing global crises, including conflicts in the Middle East.
He further noted that Sri Lanka has faced multiple challenges such as floods and external pressures, and that the Government’s ability to navigate these issues will determine its future political success.
Commenting on public dissent, Ramanayake said protest slogans are not unique to Sri Lanka and can be seen in many countries around the world. He stressed that the priority should be ensuring that those in power deliver results, rather than simply calling for their removal.
Defending the President’s economic approach, he described it as cautious and disciplined. Ramanayake said the President’s frugality helps prevent waste, adding that previous leaders had spent public funds excessively.
He concluded that the Government’s focus on saving resources has strengthened financial discipline, ultimately benefiting the public rather than serving personal interests.
