At the recent gathering for “Sarvajana Balaya” candidates at Vaskaduwa Hotel, Dilith Jayaweera elaborated on his approach to reimagining the role of the opposition in Sri Lankan politics. He emphasized that a truly effective opposition does not merely oppose for the sake of it but actively contributes to national progress, challenging the government when necessary while also taking on the role of a proactive and alternative force. Jayaweera argued that a strategic and empowered opposition could achieve more than what is typically expected if it is not bound by corruption or internal conflicts.
The event was also marked by discussions on Sarvajana Balaya’s rapid rise, having fielded candidates in all 22 electoral districts in just a year. The movement’s focus has been on promoting a unified national identity, rejecting the practice of leveraging ethnic divisions for political gain. Jayaweera highlighted the importance of economic development driven by an entrepreneurial mindset across all communities in Sri Lanka, positioning this as a path forward from the country’s past challenges.
During his address, he touched on the need for a strategic approach to development, drawing comparisons to nations that have successfully transformed their economies through comprehensive planning and execution. He also took the opportunity to stress the importance of integrity in politics, noting that an opposition bogged down by hidden agendas or unresolved legal issues would not have the strength to hold the government accountable.
The event concluded with all Sarvajana Balaya candidates receiving medals as a symbol of their commitment to responsible governance and ethical campaigning. The movement is preparing to contest in the upcoming general election under the “Padakkama” symbol, aiming to bring significant change to the political landscape. Jayaweera’s call for a “bold opposition” is intended to reshape the notion of opposition politics, making it a more dynamic and constructive force for national development.
