National Freedom Front Central Province Member Nimal Piyatissa accused the government of trying to demand commissions from importers of potatoes by relaxing the import taxes.

Piyatissa made this allegation at a press briefing at NFF party headquarters today.

He alleged that the government will demand 'ransom' from such businessmen to run their election campaign during the upcoming general election.

However, the decision by the government to reduce the taxes has threatened the livelihood of the potato growers in the hill country, Piyatissa pointed out. They will be left without any alternative but to commit suicide, Piyatissa warned.