Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa appeared to take a subtle dig at SJB MP Harsha de Silva over the latter’s comment during the second reading of the Appropriation Bill 2026, in which he praised the government for having an “overflowing treasury” for the first time in recent history.

Speaking in Parliament today (11), Premadasa said, “Anyone, even a Montessori kid, can fill the Treasury by overly taxing the people.”

He launched a sharp attack on the government, arguing that its claims of financial success are misleading. According to Premadasa, the surplus is not a result of sound fiscal management but excessive taxation, which collected over Rs. 287 billion from the public.

Premadasa cited figures showing the government exceeded IMF targets, generating revenue equivalent to 15.9% of GDP against a 15% target, and achieving a 3.8% primary balance against a 2.3% target. He argued that this created a Rs. 479 billion surplus built on the backs of taxpayers.

The Opposition Leader urged the government to use this “surplus” for the people by reducing taxes and funding programs aimed at poverty elimination.