Colombo remains without a clear majority in its Municipal Council following the recent local government elections, leading to a state of uncertainty regarding who will assume power.
Initial prospects favored the National People’s Power (NPP) as many opposition groups and independent members reportedly harbored reservations about supporting Sajith Premadasa, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB).
However, the political landscape shifted with the return of former President and United National Party (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe from his India tour. Sources indicate that he has actively engaged in the battle for control of the Colombo Municipal Council. Wickremesinghe has reportedly held discussions with key figures within the SJB, as well as independent groups and smaller parties.
These discussions, according to insiders, are aimed at finding a consensus candidate who is acceptable to the opposition and capable of effectively serving Colombo as Mayor. In the recent elections, the NPP secured 81,814 votes (36.92%) and 48 seats in the Colombo Municipal Council. The SJB emerged as the second-largest party with 58,375 votes (26.34%) and 29 seats.
To secure a majority in the Colombo Municipal Council, 59 seats are required. This means the NPP needs an additional 11 seats to gain control, while the SJB requires 30 more seats.
The UNP, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), and independent groups collectively hold 40 seats in the council. Political sources suggest that the two main contenders, the NPP and the SJB, are intensely lobbying these members to gain their support. Spokespersons for both the NPP and the SJB have issued statements expressing confidence in their respective parties’ victory.
