Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa says the current tax formula was discussed with officials of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during a meeting this week, during which he informed that the agreement will be amended and a fair tax policy will be introduced.
MP Premadasa alleged that the current tax formula in the country is unfair and that taxes have been introduced surpassing the required target.
Stating that tax revenue is important, he said government revenue can be increased through efficiency in tax collection, transparency, and including those who are not caught in the tax net.
MP Premadasa assured that there will be a clear positive change in the tax formula and vowed to introduce a fair tax formula for professionals, salaried employees and the common people.
He further said that the Opposition is against the current government’s proposal to bring in an Imputed Rental Income tax focusing on high-net-worth individuals.
MP Premadasa also stated that introducing constitutional amendments to establish health as a fundamental right in the country will resolve many issues arising from future decisions.
MP Premadasa said policymakers must remain vigilant and attentive at all times to the fundamental health rights of citizens when making policy decisions.
Pointing out that this will provide solutions to many significant issues, the Opposition Leader vowed that health, along with other socio-economic rights, will be made fundamental rights under a Samagi Jana Balawegaya government.
He further explained that there are fundamental rights in the Constitution, as well as guiding principles and fundamental policies for the implementation of state policies and that the fundamental rights in Sri Lanka’s Constitution are civil and political rights.
MP Sajith Premadasa clarified that while fundamental rights can be challenged in a court of law, the guiding principles for the implementation of state policies cannot be challenged in court.
The Leader of the Opposition made the remarks during a discussion with representatives of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) yesterday. (Newswire)
