The key defender of Sri Lanka’s controversial casino policy on Wednesday quit the government in order to support the opposition presidential candidate, reported Agence France-Presse. That is despite the opposition candidate making a number of policy statements that appear hostile to the industry.
Faizer Mustapha (pictured), an adviser to current president Mahinda Rajapakse as well as a deputy minister of investment, has joined forces with challenger Maithripala Sirisena.
Mr Sirisena has promised in his manifesto to cancel a casino licence – reportedly given to Australia’s Crown Resorts Ltd – if he wins the January 8 vote, said Reuters news agency.
He has also vowed to withdraw tax concessions granted to foreign-funded casinos.
