Chief Incumbent of Mihintale Rajamaha Viharaya Vene. Walawahengunawewe Dhammarathana Thera claimed today (13) that a Sri Lankan student studying at Cambridge University had intervened to reduce a 30 percent tariff imposed by United States President Donald Trump.

Speaking at a media briefing, Dhammarathana Thera said the student was able to leverage his association with a child or grandchild of Trump, ultimately enabling access to the US President.

“The reduction of the 30 percent tariff was achieved through that child in England, after going around and talking. We did not disclose this earlier; now we are saying it,” the Thera stated.

He further noted that, if necessary, he would even support a meeting between Trump and local stakeholders for a “system change” in Sri Lanka.

Dhammarathana Thera also extended gratitude to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for postponing the implementation of contentious education reforms until next year, following strong public opposition.

Pointing out that Education Minister Harini Amarasuriya has come under criticism from multiple parties, the Thera urged the President to immediately carry out a Cabinet reshuffle and appoint a more suitable individual to the post. Failure to do so, he warned, would undermine the broader push for “system change”.