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Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Secretary and Member of Parliament Ranjith Madduma Bandara stated that there are no internal conflicts within the SJB, despite attempts by certain groups to create the appearance of such disputes.
He also said that there have been proposals from party members regarding a potential alliance between the SJB and the United National Party (UNP), and such a union may take place in the future.
Speaking to the media after seeking blessings from the Chief Prelate of the Malwatta Chapter, Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Mahanayake Thera, Madduma Bandara emphasised that the SJB has always defended media freedom, allowing journalists to operate independently. He criticised the current Government for suppressing media freedom, contrasting it with the SJB’s consistent support for journalists, even as an Opposition party.
Madduma Bandara accused the Government of failing to fulfil its promises to farmers, stating that the fertilizer subsidies promised have not yet reached the banks. While officials claim that only a small group is left to receive the subsidy, the majority of farmers have yet to benefit.
He also highlighted the disparity between previous compensation promises for crop damage, where the Government had pledged Rs. 100,000 per acre but is now offering only Rs. 40,000, which, in many cases, remain unpaid. He criticised leaders who once protested in paddy fields with farmers, but have now retreated to air-conditioned rooms, forgetting their struggles.
He further alleged that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is effectively governing the country, with policies being dictated by external directives.
Referring to the recent nullification of nominations for Local Government elections via a gazette notification, Madduma Bandara noted that there are plans to present the proposal to Parliament. While the Government claims that Local Government elections will be held by March, he asserted that the SJB is prepared for elections whenever they occur. He predicted that the public would deliver a strong message to the ruling Government.
Commenting on the rising cost of living, he pointed out that under the ‘Good Governance’ era, a kilogram of rice cost Rs. 80, but it increased to Rs. 170 under ‘Ranil Rajapaksa’s’ administration and further surged to Rs. 250. Similarly, coconuts now cost Rs. 250 each. Madduma Bandara criticised the Government, stating that while they once accused previous administrations of failing to utilise the sea surrounding the country for fishing, they themselves have now failed to even manage the production of basic salt despite the same geographical advantage.
Asela Kuruluwansa
