Sajith ready to sacrifice salary and perks

United National Front (UNF) presidential candidate Minister Sajith Premadasa says he is prepared to forego his salary and benefits if elected as President in order to address the increasing wealth disparity in the country.

Premadasa made this observation at a press conference held at the official residence of Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera yesterday.

“More than 45% of the population lives under a daily wage of Rs. 900. These people earn less than 30,000 a month. The Census and Statistics Department says a minimum of Rs.  55,000 is needed for food and non food expenses to run a family of four,” Premadasa observed.

He further noted that 55% of the national income was distributed among the richest 20% while only 5% of the national Income was distributed among the poorest 20%.

“I will contribute my own salary and benefits for this cause once elected as President,” Premadasa said, adding that his government would introduce target driven measures to eliminate such inequality and improve living standards of the people.