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Sajith’s Media Crisis: SJB Shoots Itself in the Foot Ahead of Dinamina

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Sajith’s Media Crisis: SJB Shoots Itself in the Foot Ahead of Dinamina

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), currently engaged in a robust campaign against alleged irregularities in the incumbent National People’s Power (NPP) government, has found itself in an embarrassing media muddle of its own making, distracting from its core political mission.

The opposition party’s leadership, specifically Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, has been placed in an awkward position after a distorted version of one of his speeches was first published by the ‘Mawrata’ newspaper’s website-a publication widely considered sympathetic to the SJB-before the same distorted story was picked up by the government-controlled ‘Dinamina’ newspaper. This sequence of events undermines the SJB’s claims that the ‘Dinamina’ paper was solely responsible for the distortion.

Media Mismanagement Exposed

The incident exposes significant chaos and a lack of professional cohesion within the SJB’s media management structure. The attempt to blame the state-run media after a ‘friendly’ media network first misrepresented the leader’s statement points to a severe lapse in responsibility and potential internal conflicts among those directing the SJB’s media operations.

This is not the first time the ‘Mawrata’ newspaper, which is reportedly controlled by the SJB, has published news that has embarrassed its own leader. Political analysts speculate whether these are recurring professional errors or, more seriously, the actions of internal factions working to destabilise the party leadership.

The inability of the SJB to control and ensure the correct messaging from a media operation loyal to the party raises a potent question about its suitability to govern the country. Political commentators urge the SJB to swiftly correct this media fiasco and ensure its leader’s message is accurately conveyed to the nation.

OUSL Offers Crucial Second Chance for Humanities and Social Sciences Degrees

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OUSL Offers Crucial Second Chance for Humanities and Social Sciences Degrees

The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) has offered a vital “second chance” to students who, for various reasons, missed the opportunity to join a Humanities and Social Sciences degree program within the conventional state university system, as well as to working professionals seeking career advancement. This initiative underscores OUSL’s significant contribution to expanding access to higher education and developing the nation’s human capital through flexible learning methodologies.

Flexible Education Meets National Needs

As the pioneer in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Sri Lanka, OUSL provides a highly flexible educational experience to undergraduates through its network of regional centers. This system offers immense relief, especially to those currently employed or unable to attend traditional university classes. It provides an opportunity to earn a quality degree under the guidance of esteemed academics, essential for professional growth.

The three-year degree program offered by OUSL has been specially designed with a relevant, modern curriculum tailored to meet the current social, economic, and political needs of the country.

Focus on Four New Key Areas

Students have the opportunity to gain new knowledge across the following vital fields of study:

  • Politics & International Studies
  • Economic & Development Studies
  • Society & Culture Studies
  • Communication Studies

These subject areas are critical for understanding the nation’s economic reforms, community development, and international relations. Consequently, the degree will help create an informed human resource pool capable of taking on challenges and directly contributing to the nation’s development.

Those interested in seizing this valuable opportunity can register by visiting the Open University premises in Nawala or their nearest regional center on November 24, 25, 26, and 27, 2025.

UNP Relaunches with ‘Sirikotha’ Opening, Positioning Itself as the Alternative for Economic Stability

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UNP Relaunches with ‘Sirikotha’ Opening, Positioning Itself as the Alternative for Economic Stability

The United National Party (UNP) is reportedly launching a new program aimed at positioning itself as the viable alternative for the country, leveraging its historic policies and experienced leadership to offer solutions.

Marking this shift, the UNP’s headquarters, ‘Sirikotha,’ which has served as the epicenter of UNP politics for decades, is set to be reopened on December 7th. The event will feature a new look and a fresh political vision, with the active participation of party supporters. This resurgence is intended to symbolize the UNP’s goal of steering the country towards proven economic growth and credible governance, contrasting with the failed populist policies of the current NPP government.

The UNP has always been known for its strong market-friendly policies, large-scale investment initiatives, and rapid economic growth. Historically, during their times in power (notably 1977 and 2001), they established key economic institutions such as the Board of Investment (BOI), which the history books record as periods of robust economic growth for the nation.

Political Science Tutor Hemapriya Appointed SJB Co-Organizer for Maharagama, Signalling a New Political Awakening

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Political Science Tutor Hemapriya Appointed SJB Co-Organizer for Maharagama, Signalling a New Political Awakening

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has accelerated its restructuring program, appointing new faces and young leaders to key positions. In a notable move, Hemapriya Kavirathne, a prominent tutor in political science and author, has been appointed as the SJB Co-Organizer for Maharagama.

Mr. Hemapriya is widely popular, especially among the younger generation. His significant contribution to the field of political science has generated considerable enthusiasm among the intelligent middle-class populace and the youth regarding his new appointment.

Before this, Mr. Hemapriya held several key positions in the United National Party (UNP) and the professional lecturers’ association of the SJB, and also served as the Political Secretary of the United People’s Party.

The SJB, led by Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa, has recently attracted several new individuals. The party leadership’s focus on entrusting greater responsibility to young recruits is evident in these appointments.

In a related development, Janitha De. Silva, a strong activist of the UNP and a businessman from the Beruwala area, has also been appointed as the SJB Co-Organizer for Beruwala.

Through these steps to further reorganize the party and provide frontline positions and increased responsibilities to young members, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya aims to further secure the confidence of the intelligent middle class and the youth community.

‘The Third Path’ for the Nation

These appointments were made during a meeting of the SJB district and constituency organizers held at the Monarch Imperial in Battaramulla. Addressing the gathering, Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa presented the party’s clear vision for the future economic policy.

He emphasized the necessity of a capitalist program to meet the wealth, resource, and monetary needs of the citizens as a nation. However, to correct the contradictions inherent in traditional capitalism-where “the haves become richer and the have-nots fall further,” the SJB is adopting ‘Humanitarian Capitalism,’ which prioritizes humanity.

“We cannot agree with a form of capitalism where supply and demand alone determine all decisions. A limited state intervention is necessary to resolve the imbalances created by capitalism,” said Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa.

The Opposition Leader further pointed out that under limited state intervention, essential services such as health and education must be provided free of charge, upholding the concept of a welfare state.

IMF and Debt Relief: Reality and Responsibility

Speaking at the event, Dr. Harsha de Silva presented an analysis of the country’s current economic situation and the ongoing IMF program.

Attorney General’s Office Accused of Political Ploy as Ranil Wickremesinghe Probe ‘90% Complete’

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Attorney General’s Office Accused of Political Ploy as Ranil Wickremesinghe Probe ‘90% Complete’

A highly conspicuous signal has been sent by the Attorney General’s Department, indicating that the investigation into the alleged misuse of LKR 16.6 million in state funds by former President Ranil Wickremesinghe is being fast-tracked in line with the political agenda of the current National People’s Power (NPP) government.

The declaration made to the court by the Attorney General’s Department-that the probe is ‘90% complete’—comes as the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is set to return from London after recording statements from 50 individuals. This sudden progress announcement has sparked accusations that the goal is not swift justice but a swift political victory.

Political Statements in the Courtroom

The startling percentage was revealed when Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Dilipa Peiris moved a motion to lift the travel ban on former Presidential Secretary Saman Ekanayake. ASG Peiris informed the court that the investigation was ‘90% complete’ and that steps would be taken to “file indictments quickly” before the High Court once the investigation concludes.

Critics argue that issuing such a specific numerical statement (90% complete) regarding the progress of a complex, high-profile corruption case in open court is an attempt to exert political influence over the legal process. The statement is seen as a potent political message from the NPP government, signaling its urgent desire for a “triumphant” prosecution against the former President.

The Attorney General’s Double Standard

Adding to the controversy is the apparent contradiction in the Attorney General’s stance. When Ranil Wickremesinghe’s legal team, including the President’s Counsel, met with Attorney General Parinda Ranasinghe to inquire about the investigation’s progress, he reportedly stated that a clearer explanation could only be given after the CID team returns from the UK, implying more time was needed.

While Attorney General Ranasinghe privately assures Wickremesinghe’s lawyers that the investigation requires more time to complete, a senior official from the same department, the Additional Solicitor General, publicly tells the court the probe is ‘90% complete’.

This glaring inconsistency is viewed by observers as more than just a procedural difference. It further solidifies accusations that both the CID and the Attorney General’s Department are operating according to the NPP government’s political agenda.

Regulatory Chaos Threatens Sri Lanka’s Popular ‘Tuk-Tuk Self-Drive’ Tourism Trend?

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Regulatory Chaos Threatens Sri Lanka’s Popular ‘Tuk-Tuk Self-Drive’ Tourism Trend?

Sri Lanka’s burgeoning ‘Tuk-Tuk Self-Drive Tourism’ trend, a unique initiative that has significantly boosted the local economy, is on the verge of collapse due to escalating government inefficiency and regulatory disarray. Reliable sources indicate preparing to launch a sudden operation to seize three-wheelers, even those legally rented by fully licensed tourists.

The catalyst for this imminent crackdown is a decision by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT)-operating under the current administration-to temporarily suspend the issuance of driving permits for three-wheelers to foreigners.

Over the past few years, renting a three-wheeler and exploring the island has become immensely popular among international visitors. This trend, attracting tourists from high-income countries like Europe, North America, and Australia, created a direct revenue stream for small, local three-wheeler owners and rental agencies.

However, a failure to implement promised institutional reforms by the current government has prevented the establishment of a simple, transparent framework to regulate this industry. Even proposals by the Tourist Police to regulate three-wheeler operations, made years ago, have been ignored by the government. As a result, risky, unlicensed agencies have proliferated, leading to road accidents and tourist inconvenience.

Instead of addressing the complex regulatory issue, the government has chosen a destructive policy that directly punishes the local economy and small entrepreneurs. The permit suspension and the sudden police operations targeting tourists-even those who obtained legal licenses, will severely damage Sri Lanka’s international image. The unpleasant experiences of tourists facing police pressure are highly likely to be broadcast widely across foreign media, negatively impacting the country’s reputation.

NPP’s Double Standard Exposed: Opposition Rally Muzzled Under A/L Exam Pretext After Ruling Party’s Own Event Gets Green Light

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NPP’s Double Standard Exposed: Opposition Rally Muzzled Under A/L Exam Pretext After Ruling Party’s Own Event Gets Green Light

The political hypocrisy and abuse of state power by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (NPP) government were publicly exposed once again today (November 21st) when the Sri Lanka Police ordered the silencing of loudspeakers at a planned joint opposition rally in Nugegoda. Organizers of the rally accuse the police of selectively enforcing the law, using the G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) examination as a pretext, and claim the action is a tactic to suppress democratic protest.

Tangalle vs.Nugegoda: A Clear Double Standard

This incident clearly demonstrates a double standard in police operations. Yesterday (November 20th), the police granted permission for loudspeakers at an NPP rally in Tangalle, chaired by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. However, today, the same A/L examination is being cited to force the removal of loudspeakers for the opposition’s rally scheduled at the Ananda Samarakoon Open Air Theatre in the Mirihana Police Division.

United National Party Deputy General Secretary Harin Fernando stated that the loudspeakers have been removed under police coercion. This, he asserted, unequivocally proves that the NPP administration, which boasts about the rule of law, ignores sound regulations when it provides them with a political advantage and then weaponizes those same regulations to repress opposition gatherings.

State Power as a Political Tool

The NPP government has faced continuous accusations of selectively applying the law against the opposition and using state institutions like the Police and the CID as political tools. The Nugegoda incident provides further confirmation of these charges.

The use of a sensitive national matter like the A/L examination as a smokescreen to silence the voice of political rivals reveals the authoritarian tendencies of the NPP regime. This is more than just the removal of loudspeakers; it is an attempt to quiet the voice of dissent against the NPP’s conduct. Much like the previous attempts to cover up the government’s unpopularity by issuing quota orders to the police to bring crowds to the Tangalle rally, this is a clear instance of trampling on democratic rights.

This event undeniably confirms that the NPP government, instead of delivering the policy change it promised the nation, has merely facilitated a change of rulers, adopting the coercive traditions of previous regimes. This double standard is a severe blow not only to the rule of law but to the entire democratic process.

UNP Infighting: Navin Dissanayake’s Anti-Rajapaksa Stance Sparks ‘Farcical Drama’ and Boosts NPP

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UNP Infighting: Navin Dissanayake’s Anti-Rajapaksa Stance Sparks ‘Farcical Drama’ and Boosts NPP

The special ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) message issued by former Governor and senior United National Party (UNP) member Navin Dissanayake, publicly declaring his non-participation in the upcoming party meeting in Nugegoda, has once again created a farcical drama within opposition politics. He argues that “politics with the Rajapaksas can never be trusted” and that the UNP should unite with parties like the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and not with the ‘Pohottuwa’ (SLPP).

However, a closer look at Mr. Dissanayake’s sudden ‘pure’ stance requires a recollection of his own political history.

The Shadow of Forgotten Ministries

Navin Dissanayake, who today publicly declares the untrustworthiness of politics with the Rajapaksas, was a strong partner in that very regime in the past. During 2014/2015, he served as the Minister of Public Administration and Home Affairs in the then Mahinda Rajapaksa government, and previously as the Minister of Plantation Industries, directly contributing to the government’s important decisions.

Critics label his sudden adoption of the ‘untrustworthy’ ethical narrative as the height of political hypocrisy, given that he was closely involved with the Rajapaksa family for years, except for the moment he decided to leave the Mahinda Rajapaksa government for political gain and support a common candidate. His position is not policy-based but rather driven by personal ambitions and political opportunism.

Opposition Crisis and the NPP’s Comfort

While the UNP Working Committee has officially decided to attend the Nugegoda meeting, Mr. Dissanayake’s open dissent clearly demonstrates the continuous instability and internal conflicts within the opposition’s old guard. There is no consensus within the UNP, even on the simple matter of whether the opposition should ally with the Rajapaksas or oppose them.

This situation presents a significant advantage to the current National People’s Power (NPP) government. The NPP government is currently facing serious accusations, including failure to restore the country’s economy, political vendettas (such as the expedited case against Ranil Wickremesinghe within a month), and misuse of state institutions (such as police quotas ordered for the Tangalle rally).

As the traditional opposition grapples with personal protests and historical issues, it becomes easy for the NPP government to advance its political agenda without any challenge. Navin Dissanayake’s ‘X’ message can be described as a unique political gift to the current NPP government from a ruinously divided opposition. Although the statement expresses anti-Rajapaksa sentiment, the ultimate result is the consolidation of the NPP regime’s existence.

NPP’s ‘Change’ Illusion Shattered: Police Ordered to Fill Seats for President’s Rally as Tangalle Council Rejects Budget

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NPP’s ‘Change’ Illusion Shattered: Police Ordered to Fill Seats for President’s Rally as Tangalle Council Rejects Budget

The National People’s Power (NPP) administration, which promised a revolution of change and transparency, is now facing serious allegations that it is exhibiting the same traits of old, corrupt regimes, namely the misuse of state resources and authoritarian tendencies. The true extent of the government’s dwindling popularity has been exposed by two major events: the leaked order directing the police to mobilize crowds for President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s anti-drug rally scheduled for today (November 20) in Tangalle, and the defeat of the NPP-controlled Tangalle Urban Council budget on the very same day.

Defeat at the Political Heart

In a stunning political blow, the inaugural budget of the NPP-led Tangalle Urban Council was defeated today by a 10-9 vote, occurring in the very town where the President is holding his major rally. The Southern Province is a critical political region, and the failure of the budget in their own Urban Council on the day the head of the government arrives for a rally is a clear indicator of grassroots public displeasure. The cross-over vote from a Sarvajana Balaya member to the opposition highlights that the public sentiment is rapidly turning into an adversarial opinion even at the local government level.

The Scandalous Order to Police: Forced Mobilization

Further confirming the administration’s faltering popularity, Parliamentarian D.V. Chanaka exposed a serious revelation: the police have been assigned the responsibility of gathering crowds for the President’s rally. According to the revealed orders issued by Police Chiefs in charge of the Southern Province, police stations across the Matara, Galle, and Hambantota districts have been instructed to bring people under a quota system.

Specific targets, such as 397 people for the Tangalle Police Station, 420 for Beliatta, and 414 for Weeraketiya, clearly demonstrate the authoritarian tendencies of the NPP regime. Even more alarming is the revelation that separate checkpoints have been established to inspect and mark whether police stations have met their assigned quota. This reveals that the government, which promised good governance and the independence of state institutions, is instead abusing the police service as a political tool to forcefully assemble crowds for its meetings and manufacture a false mandate.

Is ‘Purity’ Just a Facade?

This incident confirms the political hypocrisy of the NPP government. On one hand, they criticize the corruption and abuse of power by previous regimes. On the other hand, the act of assigning undignified political tasks to the country’s security forces for their own political gain proves that they are no different from the old system. Revelations that the previous ‘Ilmah Viru’ commemoration event also lacked adequate party supporters may suggest why a police force was deemed necessary for these rallies.

The NPP government must immediately take responsibility for issuing these orders and provide an answer to the nation regarding the compromise of police independence. Failure to do so will solidify their entire ‘project of change’ as the biggest fraud in the eyes of the public.

NPP’s ‘Justice’ Under Fire: Attorney General’s Deadline on Ranil Wickremesinghe Probe Sparks Political Interference Fears

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NPP’s ‘Justice’ Under Fire: Attorney General’s Deadline on Ranil Wickremesinghe Probe Sparks Political Interference Fears

The Attorney General’s announcement today (November 19) to the Fort Magistrate’s Court that investigations into the state financial misappropriation case against former President Ranil Wickremesinghe would be concluded within one month and charges filed in a higher court has raised serious concerns about the current National People’s Power (NPP) government’s political interference in the legal process.

Critics argue that setting a public deadline to expedite a case against a former head of state, when complex financial misappropriation probes typically take years-indicates that the decision is driven by political necessity rather than the rule of law.

Justice Aligned with the Political Calendar

The announcement was made by Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris, appearing for the Attorney General, during the hearing of a request by former Presidential Secretary Saman Ekanayake to lift his travel ban. Although Ekanayake’s lawyers withdrew their request following the promise of expedited action, the incident suggests that the NPP administration is exerting immense political pressure on the Attorney General’s Department to dismantle the independence of state institutions and deliver swift “solutions” against political opponents.

While the current government champions anti-corruption as its key slogan, critics allege that these expedited investigations are all politically targeted. Amidst the government’s failure to provide quick remedies to the soaring cost of living and the ongoing economic crisis, the acceleration of this sensitive case is seen as a clear attempt to divert public attention and secure a political victory.

Institutional Anarchy and Selective Justice

The issue of institutional anarchy was highlighted previously in this same case, with reports that a team of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officers had traveled to the UK without informing the Attorney General’s Department. Instead of correcting this institutional confusion, the Attorney General’s subsequent move to impose an unreasonable deadline further compromises the integrity of the legal process.

On one hand, the government is moving to file charges against Ranil Wickremesinghe within a month, while on the other, the CID report to the court regarding Namal Rajapaksa’s fraudulent acquisition of a law degree has been suppressed for months. This policy of selective justice clearly demonstrates that the NPP’s anti-corruption drive is merely a powerful tool used to destroy political rivals. The use of the legal process as a political agenda is likely to severely undermine the credibility of the nation’s justice system.

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Latest Articles

Sajith’s Media Crisis: SJB Shoots Itself in the Foot Ahead of Dinamina

Politics 0
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), currently engaged in a robust campaign against alleged irregularities in the incumbent National People's Power (NPP) government, has found itself in an embarrassing media muddle of its own making, distracting from its core political mission.

OUSL Offers Crucial Second Chance for Humanities and Social Sciences Degrees

Business 0
The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) has offered a vital "second chance" to students who, for various reasons, missed the opportunity to join a Humanities and Social Sciences degree program within the conventional state university system, as well as to working professionals seeking career advancement. This initiative underscores OUSL's significant contribution to expanding access to higher education and developing the nation's human capital through flexible learning methodologies.

UNP Relaunches with ‘Sirikotha’ Opening, Positioning Itself as the Alternative for Economic Stability

Politics 0
The United National Party (UNP) is reportedly launching a new program aimed at positioning itself as the viable alternative for the country, leveraging its historic policies and experienced leadership to offer solutions.

Most Popular

Political Science Tutor Hemapriya Appointed SJB Co-Organizer for Maharagama, Signalling a New Political Awakening

Politics 0
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has accelerated its restructuring program, appointing new faces and young leaders to key positions. In a notable move, Hemapriya Kavirathne, a prominent tutor in political science and author, has been appointed as the SJB Co-Organizer for Maharagama.

Sajith’s Media Crisis: SJB Shoots Itself in the Foot Ahead of Dinamina

Politics 0
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), currently engaged in a robust campaign against alleged irregularities in the incumbent National People's Power (NPP) government, has found itself in an embarrassing media muddle of its own making, distracting from its core political mission.

Regulatory Chaos Threatens Sri Lanka’s Popular ‘Tuk-Tuk Self-Drive’ Tourism Trend?

Business 0
Sri Lanka's burgeoning 'Tuk-Tuk Self-Drive Tourism' trend, a unique initiative that has significantly boosted the local economy, is on the verge of collapse due to escalating government inefficiency and regulatory disarray. Reliable sources indicate the police are preparing to launch a sudden operation to seize three-wheelers, even those legally rented by fully licensed tourists.

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