SL could face economic crisis by New Year 2026, UNP warns

By Yohan Perera 

Sri Lanka could face an economic crisis by the Sinhala New Year 2026, fuelled by Cyclone Ditwah as it has been predicted by Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, United National Party (UNP) Deputy General Secretary Harin Fernando said yesterday. 

“Sri Lanka is moving towards a Forex crisis. Remember what I have said today (December 15, 2025) and you will understand what we have said today, especially on April 15, 2026,” UNP Deputy General Secretary said. 

“You may recall how former President Wickremesinghe predicted the 2022 economic crisis and how it came true. He is of the opinion that the nation would move towards another economic crisis by the Sinhala Tamil New Year 2026. However, he does not intend to take over the presidency in the event of a crisis as he did in 2022,” he added. 

Asked about the government’s idea of holding an international donor conference to seek foreign aid, he said such an event would not bring in much funds to Sri Lanka. “One must remember that Sri Lanka was not the only country which was hit by natural disasters in the recent past. Indonesia, Thailand and even Malaysia were hit by inclement weather conditions. Therefore, donor countries will think of these countries as well and will consider the damage these nations have suffered. They will also stick to their budgets. Accordingly, Sri Lanka cannot expect large-scale support out of a donor conference,” he said in this regard. 

Furthermore, Mr Fernando said it is important to prepare a proper estimate of the impact which Cyclone Ditwah has had on the nation. “As we understand, no such estimate has been prepared to this date,” he said. 

“It is essential to present an official estimate on the damages caused by Ditwah to Parliament on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Such an estimate should be subjected to a discussion in Parliament, as it was done during the tsunami,” he also said.