Bimal Ratnayake, a senior figure in the National People’s Power (NPP), firmly rejected any notion of Douglas Devananda being appointed to a ministerial position within their government. Speaking at a public rally in Jaffna on October 8, Ratnayake made it clear that Devananda, who had previously served as a minister under the Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe governments, would not be part of their administration. He expressed that those who had contributed to the destruction of the country through their actions in past governments would not be allowed to serve again in any capacity.
Ratnayake specifically criticized Devananda for his recent efforts to secure a role in the new government, including meeting with the President and circulating a photo that suggested a potential ministerial appointment. Ratnayake accused Devananda of misleading the public by claiming he had discussed his future ministry roles during his time as the fisheries minister. He also denounced Devananda’s actions as a blatant political move to gain attention and curry favor with the public.
In his speech, Ratnayake condemned Devananda for his role in the former administrations, accusing him of playing a part in the policies that harmed the North, especially during the war. He went on to accuse Devananda and his allies of exploiting the Tamil and Muslim populations for political gain by manipulating them for votes and continuing to make false promises about their support for the NPP.
Ratnayake also pointed out the hypocrisy of Devananda and other politicians who had been part of the old regime, accusing them of seizing lands from poor Tamil and Muslim families during the war, and now using the same communities’ votes to further their political careers. He warned the public that these politicians were part of the same system that had caused the country’s damage and should not be trusted again.
In conclusion, Ratnayake made it clear that the NPP would not give in to political opportunism or support individuals who had been part of the establishment that led to Sri Lanka’s struggles. He reiterated that the NPP was focused on building a new government with integrity, not reviving the failed policies of the past.
