The Sri Lankan government accused the opposition on Thursday of attempting to undermine the crucial IMF bailout programme by meeting with the ambassadors based in Colombo and asking for their assistance in persuading the international lender to impose stricter conditions with regard to the postponed local elections. The charge was levelled just days after the IMF authorised a USD 2.9 billion rescue programme to aid the indebted nation in overcoming its economic difficulties and spark financial assistance from other development partners. Prasanna Ranatunga, the chief government whip and minister of urban development, stated during a speech in parliament that the opposition demanded that strict restrictions be put in place before the IMF begins disbursing funds during a private meeting with foreign diplomats.
