AKD Emphasizes Efficient Use of 2026 Budget Allocations

COLOMBO (News 1st); President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stressed that the 2026 budget allocations have been structured within existing financial limits, prioritizing national needs.

He underscored that it is the responsibility of all ministry secretaries and state officials to ensure these allocations are utilized with maximum efficiency for the well-being of the people.

The President pointed out that despite significant capital expenditure in the past, the state machinery has failed to deliver tangible physical progress, depriving citizens of development opportunities. 

He also noted that, in previous years, budget planning often anticipated unspent funds, a practice that has now been eliminated.

“We have created the necessary framework to ensure timely disbursement of funds without delays,” the President assured.

Speaking at a meeting with ministry secretaries at the Presidential Secretariat this morning (5), he further explained that under the Extended Fund Facility with the IMF, expenditure is capped at 13% of national production, with at least 4% allocated for capital investment.

Accordingly, allocations have been made based on national priorities.

Highlighting the government’s role as the country’s largest investor, the President revealed that Rs. 1,400 billion has been allocated for capital expenditure, along with an additional Rs. 500 billion for reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah.

He emphasized that the primary responsibility of ministry secretaries is to manage these allocations effectively to achieve the expected physical progress, warning that failure to implement proposed projects means denying citizens their rightful benefits.