• Economic challenges continue, with Govt. yet to resolve IMF conundrum and reach deal on US tariffs
• Formation of administrations for LGs to take more time than stipulated 7-day period; only 161 LGs formed
• Administrations for 177 LGs to start formation from tomorrow; all parties/groups yet to submit list names to EC
• Bimal speaks of impending changes in Govt.; Lalkantha wants heads tested and Sunil denies changes
• JVP/NPP assures of CMC power, SLPP vows not to give CMC to JVP/NPP; SJB determines mayoral candidate
• Former Governor supports JVP/NPP to secure CMC councillors; SJB seeks 2 changes in CMC list from EC 
• AKD meets ruling party’s councillors to LGs, calls for the next tier of leaders from among the councillors
• SJB hit by tsunami of resignations from organisers over list issues for LGs; Rohini pushes negotiations
• Marikkar expresses displeasure over being sidelined in CMC formation, directs questions to Mujibur
• SJB’s Ranjith expands party support in Matugama; independent group accuses JVP/NPP of inducements
• SJB leadership intervenes to resolve issues with organisers; RW calls for a new UNP with new faces
• RW’s security displaced without lodging; Acting IGP to ask intel units to conduct threat assessments
• Wimal says Govt. probing list of 40 former ministers, including himself; Ananda says probing 20 politicians
• Govt. revives FCID from ‘Yahapalana’ time for probes due to high density; Nalin predicts NPP’s downfall
• Mahindananda and Nalin assigned to ‘K’ Ward in Welikada Prison; former CM Ranjith in the same ward
• JVP/NPP and SJB clash over credit for case against Mahindananda, Nalin; cases filed during ‘Yahapalana’
• Mahinda, Lasantha, Anuradha visit Duminda, not Keheliya; after son, Keheliya’s daughter under probe
• MR meets a group of SLPP seniors; advises to lay low, let the Govt. do its work and asks to build party

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) seems to be more confident of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People’s Power’s (NPP) ability to form the administrations of a majority of the Local Government (LG) bodies tomorrow (2) than he was a few weeks back.

However, the constitution of administrations for around 177 LG bodies is expected to take more time given the failure of any party or group to secure a majority of the seats in the respective councils. Hence, LG bodies are expected to hold inaugural sessions starting tomorrow (2) within the next seven-day period, which means the common notion that all LG bodies will convene tomorrow is not correct. 

LG bodies have a seven-day period to hold their inaugural session. This seven-day period, it is learnt, can be further extended by order of the Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister in the event the stipulated period is insufficient for the hundreds of councils of LG bodies that are yet to be formed under the supervision of the commissioners of the relevant LG bodies.

Commissioner General of Elections Saman Sri Ratnayake explained that the administrations of 161 LG bodies with clear winners and parties recording a majority had already been gazetted and formed. “These bodies can convene any time from 2 June onwards within the seven-day period.” 

He explained that there were around 177 LG administrations that had not been formed yet given the failure of any party to obtain a clear majority in these bodies. “The administrations for these LG bodies will have to be formed under the relevant LG commissioners and due to the large number of administrations to be formed in this manner, it is likely that the seven-day period could see a further extension,” he said.

When asked whether all parties and independent groups had sent in the list of names for LG bodies by the 30 May deadline, Ratnayake noted that some were still pending, but that the commission would proceed with the publication of the gazette consisting of the names with the lists available at present. However, the Election Commission will gazette the rest of the names as and when they are submitted to it.

Nevertheless, apart from forming the administrations of the LG bodies and continuing to show the strength of the JVP/NPP, the President and Government are yet to win the real battle: the economic battle. The battle to ensure the country is fully out of the economic crisis and the battle to push the country from stability to growth, which is essential to return to some semblance of normalcy and insulate the country from possible pressures when debt repayment commences in 2028. 

It is in such a backdrop that Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Assistant Governor Dr. Chandranath Amarasekara made a sobering statement last week. “It will take at least another two or three years for the country’s economy to return to the position it was in 2018,” he said, pointing out a reality that often seems to elude many, including those in the halls of power. He further noted that the cost of living had doubled by last year compared to 2021.

Another indication of the fragile state of the country’s economy was also witnessed last week when the inflation rate, measured by consumer prices in the capital Colombo, witnessed a 3% increase over 31 months.

Official data has shown that the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) had grown 0.8% in May this year to 192.8 points, although it was down 1.2% over 12 months. Accordingly, in May, the food price index had surged 2.7%, almost reaching the monetary crisis levels seen in late 2022, reports noted.

Also, the challenges faced by Sri Lanka in continuing with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme and reaching a deal on the US’s proposed trade tariffs, which would have an adverse impact, present a set of formidable battles for President AKD and his Government. 

It was rightly put by Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao during a forum in Colombo last week that the international trading system is facing challenges not seen in a century. The question now is, how well is Sri Lanka prepared to face these ‘challenges not seen in a century’?

All these factors send out one clear message to AKD and the JVP/NPP Government: regardless of the Government’s power in the Executive, Legislative, and Local Government branches, the anti-corruption agenda, or the number of accused incarcerated, if the economic battle is not won, resulting in a possible return of yet another crisis, the masses will not take to it kindly. Resilience through decades of hardship has made Sri Lankans an impatient bunch, seeking quick action and remedies.  

US trade tariff saga

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Government was happy to hear a directive by a US Federal Court against the reciprocal trade tariffs proposed by US President Donald Trump, which could have an adverse impact on the Sri Lankan economy. However, the joy was short-lived, with a Federal Court of Appeals granting the Justice Department’s request on Thursday (29 May) to stay the decision that halted Trump’s trade tariffs.

A panel of three judges at the US Court of International Trade in Manhattan on Wednesday (28 May) issued a unanimous ruling that sided with 12 US States and small businesses accusing President Trump of wrongfully invoking an emergency law to justify the bulk of his levies. The court gave the administration 10 days to “effectuate” its order. The order applies to Trump’s global flat tariff, elevated rates on China and others, and his fentanyl-related tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico.

The latest move in the US means the tariff headache will continue to vex Sri Lanka until a deal is reached with the US on the matter.

Meanwhile, the Government delegation led by Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Harshana Suriyapperuma held discussions on the proposed US trade tariffs on Sri Lanka with a group of officials from the US Trade Representative last Wednesday. It was the second round of talks held between Sri Lanka and the US.

The Sri Lankan side was also represented by CBSL Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Senior Economic Adviser to the President Duminda Hulangamuwa, and Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the US Mahinda Samarasinghe.

Reaching a final deal on the trade tariffs sooner than later is likely to help with easing the possible economic burdens on the country to some extent.

IMF conundrum

Meanwhile, the Government is continuing to face the IMF conundrum, with the fund stating that the timing of its Executive Board meeting to approve Sri Lanka’s next tranche of funding, under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), would depend on the Government’s ability to deliver on key reform commitments, including electricity tariff adjustments.

“Completion of the review is subject to approval by the Executive Board and we expect the board meeting to take place in the coming weeks,” IMF Spokesperson Julie Kozack has told the media recently.

Kozack, responding to a question on whether there had been a delay in the review and if it was linked to Sri Lanka’s commitment to revise electricity tariffs, had acknowledged the dependencies and had pointed to two critical conditions that had to be met before the review could move forward.

“The first is implementation of prior actions and the main prior actions are relating to restoring electricity, cost recovery pricing, and ensuring proper function of the automatic electricity price adjustment mechanism. And the second contingency is completion of the Financing Assurances Review, which will focus on confirming multilateral partners, committed financing contributions to Sri Lanka, and whether adequate progress has been made in debt restructuring,” she had explained.

Foreign dignitary visits

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka also witnessed a string of visits by foreign dignitaries starting with New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters, who was engaged in a visit to Sri Lanka earlier last week.

Peters held a host of meetings during his visit that included President AKD, Government ministers, and members of the Opposition, including Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa.

China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao arrived in Colombo on Wednesday (28 May) along with a strong 115-member business delegation drawn from 77 companies. He was scheduled to meet with the leadership of the Government and senior ministers in addition to keynoting a top-level business forum.

The delegation participated in the Sri Lanka-China Trade and Investment Forum that was held in Colombo on Friday (30 May), hosted by the Department of Commerce of Sri Lanka, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Sri Lanka-China Business Council of the CCC, and China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products.

During his meeting with President AKD, Wang had said that considering the current political and economic stability in Sri Lanka, along with the clear policy direction being pursued by AKD’s administration, there had been a notable rise in interest from Chinese investors looking to invest in Sri Lanka and pledged to continue with China’s support to Sri Lanka.

Another foreign dignitary arrived in the country last Wednesday; Republic of Poland Minister of Foreign Affairs Radosław Sikorski arrived in Sri Lanka on a three-day official visit. His visit took place in the context of Poland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU).

During Sikorski’s meeting with the President, AKD had said that Sri Lanka hoped to engage in broader cooperation with the EU to address emerging economic pressures. The discussions had focused extensively on strengthening cooperation between Sri Lanka and the EU. President AKD had also emphasised the importance of continued EU support in overcoming future global economic challenges facing Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is to welcome Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Richard Marles this week.

With all these visits and extension of goodwill towards Sri Lanka by foreign nations, the Sri Lankan Government will also need to swiftly transform these sentiments into positive action.

Making changes

Amidst these goings-on, the political rumour mill kept churning out unconfirmed news about changes to be made to key posts and positions in the Government and related institutions.

The rumour mill was hard at work until senior JVP/NPP Minister Bimal Rathnayake, who is seen as a rising star in the JVP, confirmed these pending changes, claiming that there were changes in the offing and that he (Rathnayake) too would witness a change in duties. 

The Minister made this observation during an interview on a State-owned television channel.

However, several of his senior JVP/NPP colleagues and ministers seem to be engaged in making contradictory statements about the much-talked-about changes in ministerial portfolios as well as other positions in the Government, while also contradicting Rathnayake.

Bimal’s take

Rathnayake claimed that there would have to be certain changes in place for the Government to operate smoothly for the next four-and-a-half years.

Following is the English translation of the statement made by the Minister during the recent interview:

“Almost 99% of the current chairpersons [of institutions under the ministry] were appointed to their posts during the tenure of three Cabinet ministers and around 21 persons got together to ensure that the country is governed without any disruptions. These appointments were mostly made for a period of six months. They also know that fact. Some of them have moved out voluntarily while some resigned to contest the elections.

“One can learn about governance only by getting involved in it. There are a lot of attributes required to lead an institution – knowledge, discipline, management, and many other attributes. Some people lack these attributes despite possessing good qualities. 

“Even I have stated that I will take the ministerial post for six months. I will give my resignation letter and leave if I’m unable to carry out my work. I have no intention of holding on to it. We have a load of work that could be similar to the work needed to be carried out for 2,000 years. This is the first time that the working class has received the power of the State. Everyone has a set of duties and we will bow out with humility if we are unable to do the work.

“It is only when you run the machine that you understand whether you can do it or not. Therefore, the first six months were used by us to learn whether we can do it and to gain experience. We do not trust the officials. We have heard them boasting a lot. We understand whether they can do what they claim. We also see that sometimes what they say is not exactly what is in their minds. Some are lazy while some others are political henchmen. 

“During the six-month period, we took time to understand all these. Now we have completed all the elections and now we have to drive for the next four-and-a-half years. For this, we need good parts and required machinery for the engine.

“In the next few months, we plan to make changes to the duties and responsibilities currently held and it will apply to me as well. Sometimes there might be new appointments as well. These changes will be carried out in a cordial manner through consultations. 

“There are many who are willing to join and work voluntarily. We are accountable to the mandate received and to the public. However, our patience runs out when there are lies being uttered and attempts made to mislead us.”

Replacing PM

It is in such a backdrop that reports that were circulating of a possible change to the post of prime minister, which is currently held by Harini Amarasuriya, became more intense.

However, there have been concerns raised by some NPPers about such a change being mooted, given that it was Amarasuriya who had played a key role in creating an appeal for the JVP-led NPP among the urban middle class, professionals, and the business community.

These discussions give the impression of growing friction between the JVP and NPP and the internal power struggle emerging through statements being made of changes to key Government posts.

Lalkantha’s denial

However, senior JVP/NPP member, Minister K.D. Lalkantha dismissed talk of a pending Cabinet reshuffle or a move to replace the Prime Minister. 

Lalkantha, who is known for his outspoken nature, even urged individuals speaking of impending changes in the Government to get their heads tested. “There are no plans to make any changes, including to the post of prime minister. Those who are making these claims should get their heads tested,” he claimed.

Given the statement made recently by Rathnayake about the need for certain changes in duties of the Government, including his own, one could wonder whether Lalkantha’s statement on ‘head-testing’ also applied to his long-time colleague (Rathnayake).

Sunil’s response

Meanwhile, Minister Sunil Handunnetti also made a controversial statement recently when he denied Minister Rathnayake’s statement about impending changes in the Government.

Handunnetti had said during a political interview on a private television channel that there was no need for a Cabinet reshuffle or any other changes to portfolios since all ministers were carrying out their duties without any shortcomings. 

Hence, Handunnetti seems to be of the opinion that there is no need for a change to the Government’s engine, contradicting Rathnayake.

Nevertheless, these contradictory statements being made by senior members of the JVP/NPP and the Government are concerning, especially given that the JVP was once a party that gave much prominence to discipline and toeing the party line. 

The question therefore is whether the party no longer has a ‘clear line’ or whether it has consciously adopted a strategy of making confusing statements in public as a diversionary tactic. One would hope that it is the latter given that Sri Lanka is in need of stability while on its path to economic recovery.

Three NPPers to resign

Meanwhile, three JVP/NPP Members of Parliament (MPs) are expected to resign from their parliamentary seats. The reason for the resignation of the MPs, representing mostly the NPP, has been cited as personal reasons.

It is learnt that many MPs from the NPP had earlier been employed in the public and private sectors, drawing a monthly salary to tend to their personal obligations. However, this situation has now changed with the JVP/NPP’s policy of working voluntarily without drawing a salary. 

Hence, these difficulties have been cited by several MPs as reasons for their need to resign from their positions. The ruling party had reportedly understood the predicament and agreed that individuals facing difficulties in following party policies should be permitted to move out.

However, it is also learnt that the ruling party is all geared to appoint new members to fill the vacancies that would be created by the resignations in such an event.

RW takes Harini’s place

Amidst these developments in the JVP/NPP, a recent incident where former President Ranil Wickremesinghe had taken the lead at an international forum that Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya had decided not to attend has also come to light.

The event was the fifth Bay of Bengal Maritime Dialogue organised by the Pathfinder Foundation led by former Minister Milinda Moragoda. The Prime Minister was expected to be the Chief Guest at this event. However, upon learning that the Premier was not going to attend the event, the organisers had invited Wickremesinghe as the Chief Guest.

LGs in chaos

Meanwhile, the chaos in forming the administrations of Local Government bodies, due to meet for the first time tomorrow (2) since the recently concluded elections, continues to heat up the local political scene.

The Election Commission has stated that councillors elected will not be able to attend the inaugural sessions of LG bodies if the political parties and independent groups fail to submit details of their appointed members from the non-division level (list) as only gazetted members can attend the meetings. The inaugural sessions of the LG bodies are to be chaired by LG assistant commissioners.

Commissioner General of Elections Saman Sri Ratnayake said earlier in the week that no party or independent group had at that time secured a majority in 178 LG bodies. This issue however will not arise in the LG bodies in which there are clear winners with a majority, and either the mayors or the chairpersons will preside at their inaugural meetings.

The Election Commission last week informed all parties and independent groups that contested the LG Polls to submit to the relevant district returning officers the list of names of their members of the respective LG bodies before midnight on Friday (30 May). The gazette with the names of councillors was to be printed yesterday (31 May). 

The extraordinary gazette notification issued by the Election Commission stated that the final list of elected LG members must be submitted to the respective district returning officers by 30 May and that the names of all elected and appointed members must be officially published before the commencement of the new term of LG bodies.

The notification had further stated that despite 21 days having passed since the conclusion of the election, several parties and groups had yet to submit the full list of their designated members.

SJB seeks amendments

Meanwhile, the list of names submitted by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) for the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) has been amended even after being submitted to the Election Commission.

The SJB had sought permission from the Election Commission to make two changes to the party’s list for the CMC. The Election Commission had permitted the changes.

AKD meets councillors

Meanwhile, President AKD met with the elected councillors of the JVP/NPP where he reiterated that the ruling party had control of a majority of the LG bodies.

He claimed that the JVP/NPP was in control of 267 LG bodies, with the party setting up administrations in 152 LG bodies immediately and forming administrations in 115 LG bodies afterwards.

The President noted that the 3,926 councillors representing the JVP/NPP in the LG bodies should work towards becoming the next tier of leaders.

Former Governor’s role

While the ruling JVP/NPP is making its final play to form the administrations of LG bodies, including those in which the party had failed to secure a majority, it is learnt that a former Governor with affiliations to several political parties currently in the Opposition had extended support to the ruling party in securing the support of councillors, especially in the CMC, for the JVP/NPP.

It is no secret that wresting power in the CMC is equally important to the JVP/NPP and the Opposition parties. For the ruling party, it is about expanding its power base following its victories at the Presidential and Parliamentary Elections. For the Opposition, it is about ensuring that the country’s key LG body remains with the United National Party (UNP) and now the SJB.

President AKD himself intervening in the formation of the CMC is evidence of the ruling party’s desire to hold power in the CMC, resulting in Opposition parties accusing the JVP/NPP also of engaging in the traditional ‘deal-making.’

The NPP holds 48 seats in the CMC while the combined Opposition holds a majority of 60 seats.

It is in such a backdrop that news surfaced of an elderly politician who is a former Governor being engaged in supporting the ruling party to secure the support of independent councillors in the CMC.

It is also learnt that this elderly politician is at odds with Opposition Leader Premadasa for having ignored him and is now getting his business friends to speak to elected councillors to obtain their support for the JVP/NPP.

JVP/NPP lead

As of yesterday, it is learnt that the ruling party had secured the required majority in the CMC, given the usual split among Opposition ranks.

Minister Lalkantha has made several statements claiming that the ruling party has wrested control of the CMC and JVP/NPP mayoral candidate Vraie Cally Balthazaar is the mayoress of Colombo. “It’s all done. Only the statement announcing comrade Vraie Cally Balthazaar needs to be made officially.”

Several political analysts noted that, given the JVP/NPP’s total number of seats in the council, they would only require around 10-11 more seats to secure power while the Opposition parties were required to ensure that all councillors in their side stood united, which was a tall order.

While several independent groups have been engaged in horse trading with the key political parties over their support, there is also growing speculation that some parties could deliberately delay the submission of lists of names of councillors for LG bodies, making it easier for the ruling party to form a majority with the number of councillors in the council at the inaugural session. 

Sagara’s claim

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) General Secretary Sagara Kariyawasam claimed that the party would not support any move to hand over control of the CMC to the current Government, and that recent election results reflected a clear rejection of the ruling administration by the majority of Colombo’s voters.

Kariyawasam noted that the SLPP’s decisions would not be influenced by partisan interests or personal loyalties and that his party would only back an Opposition party or group that respected the will of the electorate.

SJB’s decision

Meanwhile, the SJB has decided to name a former councillor who has served in the CMC for many years as the party’s nominee for the post of CMC mayor.

There has been much discussion within the SJB as well as with the UNP on the councillor who would be backed by the two parties with the support of other parties and independent groups in the council. It is learnt that it has finally been decided to nominate an individual elected to the CMC at the recent polls who has many years of experience serving in the council.

Resignations hit SJB

However, amidst the finalisation of the SJB’s lists for the LG bodies, a string of resignations hit the party.

The first to resign from the post of organiser for the party was Chaminda Wijesiri, who resigned from the post of SJB Organiser for Bandarawela. It was later stated that Wijesiri had resigned since his brother had not been included in the SJB list for the relevant LG body.

SJB Deputy National Organiser Ranjith Aluwihare resigned from his post afterwards. Aluwihare noted that he had stepped down as the SJB Rattota Electoral Organiser and also his role as the party’s Deputy National Organiser. His brother, Wasantha Aluwihare, who served as the main Organiser of the SJB in the Matale District, had also resigned from his post.

Then SJB Organiser for the Galle electorate, Bandulal Bandarigoda, had informed the party of his decision to resign from his post in the SJB.

Meanwhile, Champika Wijeratne, former Provincial Minister, had also announced his resignation as the Dambulla Electoral Organiser. Wijeratne had cited dissatisfaction with the party leadership’s unilateral approach to political decision-making in the Dambulla electorate.

Horowpothana Electoral Organiser Anura Buddhika and Nuwara Eliya District Co-Organiser Ashoka Sepala Anagipura had also submitted their resignations. Anagipura is also the former Chairperson of the Lindula Urban Council in Talawakelle.

The resignations of these SJB organisers were however downplayed by SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara. He further noted that the resignations would only be effective if the party leadership accepted them, indicating that the SJB leadership was not going to accept the resignation letters in a bid to pave the way for further discussions.

It is learnt that the SJB Leader had immediately dispatched several of his loyalists to speak to the SJBers who had tendered their resignations in a bid to prevent a further erosion of the party’s rank and file.

Displeasure rampant

However, many SJB organisers claim that they are displeased with decisions made by party seniors to not honour previous agreements reached with regard to the appointment of councillors to LG bodies.

According to Matale District SJB MP Rohini Wijeratne Kavirathna, there is growing dissension over the appointment of councillors to the seats secured by the party at the LG Elections. She explained that the party had changed an earlier decision of appointing SJBers who had polled the highest voter percentages at the LG Polls to the respective LG bodies.

Kavirathna said many organisers were facing difficulties in facing the candidates who had contested the recent polls. She further noted that the issues had arisen since the SJB had not secured a large number of slots in the lists for LG bodies and was therefore facing a difficulty in accommodating all the requests being made by party organisers.

The MP urged the party leadership and organisers to resolve the issues over appointments to the LG bodies through negotiations. She further called on organisers to look at reaching amicable settlements with the party leadership, since all nominees of organisers could not be accommodated through the list due to the limited number of slots available to the SJB.

It is learnt that several more SJB organisers from the Colombo, Kurunegala, and Kandy Districts have also threatened to quit their positions in the party if the leadership fails to heed their grievances. 

Some organisers return

However, Ranjith Aluwihare, Anagipura, and Bandarigoda returned to their party positions by mid-week following discussions with the party leadership.

Following the meeting with SJB Leader Premadasa, Aluwihare stated that the issues faced by him in his constituency had been resolved. He further noted that many administrative issues in the party had also been resolved during the discussion.

Anagipura also stated that both Premadasa and Madduma Bandara had both provided swift solutions to the issues that had arisen in the appointment of members through the list to the LG bodies. He further noted that the party leadership had agreed to appoint two members requested by him (Anagipura) through the list to the Kotagala and Agarapathana LG bodies.

Meanwhile, Bandarigoda, who held a press conference and made critical comments about the SJP leadership claiming the party had a wavering leadership (‘sevala nayakathvayak’), met with Party Leader Premadasa at the Opposition Leader’s Office last week.

When questioned on whether he had made a U-turn and returned to the SJB fold, he had noted that he had only resigned from the party organiser post and not from the SJB, which he had clearly stated. He further noted that his criticism was aimed at pointing to the need for urgent solutions to issues faced by the party.

Marikkar-Mujibur clash

Meanwhile, the chaos witnessed within the SJB over the appointment of members through the list for LG bodies has also exposed a clash between two senior SJBers in relation to the CMC. The clash is between Colombo District MPs S.M. Marikkar and Mujibur Rahman. 

This clash was witnessed when Marikkar claimed at an official SJB news briefing that he was not aware of the formation of the CMC and the SJB’s role since he was not included in the process and directed questions on the matter to Rahman.

According to Marikkar, he was not included in the SJB’s elections campaign for the CMC during the LG Elections and now with the formation of the council’s administration. “I was not included in the election campaign for the CMC and now with its formation. I’m unaware, so I cannot speak of matters I’m not aware of. Please direct the questions to Mujibur Rahman,” he said.

Marikkar further noted that he had only been assigned the task of leading the campaigns for the Kolonnawa and Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia LG bodies and formation of their administrations. “If there are questions about these bodies, I can answer,” he stated.

Jagath expands support

Meanwhile, SJB Kalutara District MP Jagath Withana, who challenged the ruling party in the Kalutara District saying he would ensure the SJB secured a majority in LG bodies in his constituency, last Sunday (25 May) obtained the support of several elected councillors for the SJB in the Matugama Pradeshiya Sabha.

Accordingly, Withana had organised a meeting last Sunday between the SJB leadership and four councillors elected to the Matugama Pradeshiya Sabha under Independent Group 1. The group that met Premadasa had included Independent Group 1 Leader Kasun Niroshan Munasinghe, Narawila Samithawansa Thera, Vijitha Darshani Kumari de Silva, and Chamilani Ruwandika.

Accusation against JVP/NPP

Meanwhile, the SJB’s Withana also sat at a news briefing with a group of independent councillors from the Matugama LG body, where the ruling party was accused of trying to lure the independent members through various incentives.

A group of independent councillors from the Matugama Pradeshiya Sabha, who recently declared their support for the SJB, accused the JVP/NPP of attempting to buy their allegiance through financial and political incentives.

A spokesperson for the group alleged to the media that an NPP representative had initially approached them with promises of Provincial Council nominations and had later escalated the offer to a cash offer of Rs. 8 million per councillor. 

“The initial meeting was held at my residence with an NPP minister. I have CCTV footage of that meeting,” the spokesperson had claimed, adding that two subsequent meetings had taken place in Colombo. 

The independent group members had further claimed that they had not received any inducements from the SJB for their support.

RW’s new UNP

The UNP Leader, meanwhile, has promised the formation of a new UNP with new faces, while claiming that the ruling party had not received the mandate that it had requested from the public at the LG Elections. He has noted that the outcome of the recent elections clearly reflects the growing public dissatisfaction with the current administration.

UNP Leader Wickremesinghe, addressing an event to meet the new local council members of the UNP, has said that a committee formed by the party will select the new members to be given more responsibilities in the party.

He has noted that following the recently concluded LG Elections, there is now a need to form a new UNP and that the recent election results have shown that new faces are now needed in the party.

Nalin’s prediction

Meanwhile, SJB MP Nalin Bandara made an interesting prediction recently when he stated that the incumbent Government would not remain in power beyond 24 May next year – a year from the date he (Bandara) made the statement.

Bandara had claimed recently that dissatisfaction with the Government was increasing, not only among the public but also among Government officials and intellectuals.

“We warned of what would happen if power was handed to a group with no vision or experience. Now we are witnessing the consequences,” he had said, adding: “This is the least progressive government in history. It has no solutions to the people’s problems and those who voted for it are now expressing disapproval.”

According to Bandara, it will be the very people who brought the Government to power who will send it home before 24 May next year.

Issues in RW’s security

Meanwhile, Wickremesinghe’s security detail has found itself under the scrutiny of the Government once again last week, with members of the detail finding themselves without adequate facilities to house them. 

Having previously been occupying former President Maithripala Sirisena’s official residence on Paget Road (Mahagama Sekera Mawatha) in Colombo, the security detail had been informed that they must vacate the premises. 

Despite being offered the use of the old identity card office off Jawatta Road, the new facilities are yet to be made available to these security officers. Questions have now been raised as to where the members of this security detail will reside as many of them do not have permanent residence in Colombo. 

This is not the first time Wickremesinghe’s security has faced upheaval under the new administration. Earlier this year, two of Wickremesinghe’s long-serving security officers, including his Personal Security Officer (PSO), were abruptly transferred. While no official policy exists regarding the appointment of PSOs to VIPs, it has been an accepted practice that the VIP will personally select their PSOs to ensure these are individuals who hold their confidence.

Assessing security

Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Police is considering the reinstatement of VIP security for Opposition parliamentarians reportedly facing life-threatening risks.

The move follows formal requests from several MPs, especially from the Opposition, who have expressed concerns over their safety during a special discussion held in Parliament on 23 May.

Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya and senior Police officials had attended the meeting, at which it had been decided that intelligence agencies would conduct risk assessments on the MPs who had reported threats and that appropriate security measures would be provided based on the findings.

This meeting was held following a 20 May meeting chaired by Opposition Leader Premadasa, where party leaders had voiced concerns about MPs’ inability to carry out public duties safely.

After assuming office, the Government has had over 1,100 Police officers assigned to VIP security duties redeployed to general Police duties.

Probing 40

The ongoing probes into alleged fraud and corruption committed by previous governments has been expanded to cover a list of 40 politicians who had represented former governments, especially those of former Presidents Mahinda Rajapaksa (MR) and Wickremesinghe. This fact was revealed by former Minister Wimal Weerawansa.

Speaking during a political interview on an electronic media channel, Weerawansa has noted that a list consisting of 40 names of former ministers has been handed over to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) by the Presidential Secretariat, alleging that the Director of the commission was in constant touch with the President’s Office.

Weerawansa, while noting that his name was also among the 40, added that the likes of Ramesh Pathirana and Kanchana Wijesekera were also on the list.

Meanwhile, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala has told the media that investigations were currently ongoing into cases of 20 former ministers, similar to the cases faced by former Ministers Mahindananda Aluthgamage and Nalin Fernando. He has noted that some of these cases were as old as 10-15 years and had been swept under the carpet in the past by previous governments.

According to Wijepala, some of these cases are being handled by the CIABOC, some by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), and some by the Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID). The FCID that was in operation during the ‘Yahapalana’ Government has been revived by the incumbent Government as well.

Behind bars

Meanwhile, the Government’s actions against alleged misdoings of members of former governments has resulted in several former ministers being confined behind bars. These former Ministers are Aluthgamage, Fernando, Mervyn Silva, Prasanna Ranaweera, Keheliya Rambukwella, and Duminda Dissanayake. 

Silva and Ranaweera, who are in remand over alleged land frauds, were further remanded till 9 June by the Mahara Magistrate when the cases were taken up for hearing last Monday (26 May). The court had also rejected the bail application presented by Ranaweera.

Meanwhile, Aluthgamage was granted bail last Monday as well.

Mahindananda, Nalin jailed

However, Aluthgamage only received some brief reprieve following the receipt of bail on Monday over one case, since he was sentenced to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment by a three-judge High Court bench over another case involving the purchase and distribution of carrom and checker boards during the 2015 Presidential Election.

Along with Aluthgamage, former Minister Fernando, who was the Chairman of Sathosa during the period of the purchase of the carrom boards, was sentenced to 25 years’ rigorous imprisonment.

Both Aluthgamage and Fernando have been assigned to the ‘K’ Ward in the Welikada Prison. It is learnt that it is the same ward where former North Central Province Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith is also being held.

The former Ministers have been provided the same facilities as all other prisoners, which include a mat and pillow for sleeping. 

Battle for credit

Interestingly, the verdict on Aluthgamage and Fernando by the High Court also resulted in a development where members of the Opposition claimed that the incumbent Government should not try to take credit for the court verdict to jail the two former Ministers over corruption since the probe and legal action had been initiated by the former ‘Yahapalana’ Government.

The SJB’s Nalin Bandara told the media that the Government should not try to take credit for the court verdict as a result. Niroshan Padukka of the SJB claimed that it was they (SJBers) who had gone on bicycles and lodged the complaints against Aluthgamage and Fernando.

However, supporters of the JVP/NPP were seen taking to social media claiming that it was the JVP that had pushed and acted on the anti-corruption agenda even during the ‘Yahapalana’ Government, and that it was members of the JVP/NPP who had lodged complaints and provided details of the corruption and fraud committed by many members of the previous Rajapaksa regime.

Not visiting Keheliya

Meanwhile, Opposition politicians have become frequent visitors to the Magazine Prison to visit former ministers who are currently remanded.

Among the politicians making visits were former Ministers Mahinda Amaraweera, Lasantha Alagiyawanna, and Anuradha Jayaratne. They had visited former Minister Dissanayake, who is in remand prison. However, the fact that they had only visited Dissanayake and not Rambukwella, who is an adjoining ward, was highlighted in the media.

Focus on Keheliya’s daughter

Meanwhile, Rambukwella’s daughter Amali Rambukwella is also under probe over alleged financial irregularities. His son Ramith Rambukwella is already in remand custody over his alleged involvement in financial irregularities.

Amali has been linked to an alleged misappropriation of State funds, according to revelations made before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court on Monday (May 26).

One Nishantha Bandara Basnayake, who had served as a Coordinating Secretary to the former Minister, had told the court that although a bank account had been opened under his name, all associated documents, including the passbook, were held by the then Minister’s daughter Amali.

The information was submitted to Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali by the CIABOC when Basnayake was presented before court in connection with the ongoing investigation.

According to the CIABOC, the case involves the recruitment of 15 individuals to then Minister Keheliya Rambukwella’s personal staff during his tenure between 2021 and 2023 as the Minister of Mass Media, Health, and Environment. 

It is alleged that the salaries and overtime payments made to these individuals, amounting to over Rs. 8 million, were instead diverted for personal and political use.

Amali last Thursday (29 May) recorded a statement in relation to the ongoing probe with the CIABOC.

MR’s advice

Meanwhile, former President MR, who is also the Leader of the SLPP, had recently convened a meeting with a group of SLPP seniors.

The SLPPers had discussed how their party should take on the Government and engage in campaigns against certain actions by the administration. “We should not keep silent,” had been the common sentiment among those at the meeting.

However, MR had pointed out to the SLPPers that the party members should lay low without heading for confrontations with the Government, which is pushing for probes against members of former governments.

“Understand it is now their time, they have the mandate, and they are pushing ahead with investigations. Let them do their work. Without heading for confrontations, the party should focus on building itself from the grassroots,” the former President had advised.