Poverty rate in the country on the rise

Colombo (News1st): Relief documents were distributed among new 5000 Samurdhi beneficiaries in Matale today (September 15). The event was held under the theme "A country free of poverty by 2030" and was graced by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Speaking at the event Premier Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that they were able to implement the Samurdhi in 1995 because of the strong economy that prevailed then. He added that in 2015, the government they took over was burdened by debt and the then government is only talented in conducting protests and rallies. The Premier stated that the then government were able to achieve everything except for saving the country from the debt burden. Addressing the people Deputy Minister of Social Empowerment Ranjan Ramanayake stated that the MP who should be present at the event is Rohini Wijerathna. UNP MP Rohini Wijeratne did not attend the event claiming that the new beneficiaries were not selected in a proper manner. Leaders who governed the country assures that they have taken care of the people and the country while eradicating poverty and uplifting the economy. The surprising fact is that the number of Samurdhi beneficiaries have been increasing over the past years, which means the poverty rate in the country is increasing. Are the documents shown by the authorities under the guise of development fake and prepared only to fulfill their personal agendas?