Namal criticises dengue response and Government policies

Colombo, June 18 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organizer, MP Namal Rajapaksa, has criticised the government’s dengue control measures, alleging inefficiency in local authority responses and broader policy failures.

Speaking at a media briefing held at the SLPP headquarters on Nelum Mawatha on June 17, 2026, Rajapaksa said that in some areas around Colombo, when complaints are made regarding dengue patients, Pradeshiya Sabhas reportedly claim that fumigation will only be carried out if at least ten patients are identified.

He questioned whether local authorities were responsible for waiting until cases increased or for taking immediate action to protect communities, especially children.

Rajapaksa also alleged that the government had failed to take effective steps to control dengue, claiming that hospitals were overcrowded while some patients were being sent home. He further criticised coordination between local bodies and claimed that political influence was affecting public health efforts.

Commenting on wider economic issues, the MP also referred to fuel prices and alleged that Sri Lankans were paying high costs despite global price declines, while accusing the government of mismanagement.

He further said the SLPP was strengthening its grassroots organisation by appointing new village-level leaders and developing younger political leadership with the support of senior party figures.

Rajapaksa also urged the public to directly raise their issues with the President, stating that citizens had the right to do so, and called for attention to rising living costs and declining incomes in sectors such as transport services.