Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries Mahinda Amaraweera claims that the government’s decision to increase the salaries of public employees was not influenced by the upcoming presidential election but was part of a long-term plan scheduled to take effect in January 2025.

Addressing a women’s conference in Agunakolapalasse yesterday (08), the Minister dismissed claims by some politicians that the salary hike was a false promise tied to electioneering. “It has always been acknowledged within the Cabinet that surviving on the current salary under the existing economic conditions is extremely difficult,” Amaraweera stated.

The Minister explained that the government had already decided to increase both the salaries and the cost of living allowance for public sector employees from 2025. “These measures were intended to be formally announced during the budget presentation, though the ongoing presidential election may cause delays in the release of this year’s budget”, he added.

Amaraweera stressed that the salary increase is aimed at addressing the economic challenges faced by public servants, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving their welfare.

The event, which saw the participation of around 1,500 women, was organized in support of President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s election campaign.