Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Member of Parliament Chamindrani Kiriella has alleged that her father, veteran politician Lakshman Kiriella, was unjustly removed from the party’s national list despite his prior inclusion. According to Chamindrani, Lakshman Kiriella had signed the necessary nomination papers, but his name did not appear on the finalized list submitted to the Election Commission. The reasons behind the omission remain unclear, and the SJB has yet to provide an official explanation.
Lakshman Kiriella, a senior politician and former Minister, has played a prominent role in Sri Lanka’s political landscape. His unexpected exclusion from the list has raised questions about internal dynamics within the SJB and its approach to managing party nominations.
Chamindrani Kiriella, however, expressed optimism about her own electoral success. She highlighted the significance of her victory as the first female representative from the Kandy district in Parliament in over two decades, breaking a 21-year gap in female representation from the area. She emphasized her readiness to provide leadership for the SJB in Kandy and to work towards strengthening the party’s foothold in the region.
This development has sparked broader discussions about the role of veteran politicians, party decision-making processes, and the importance of ensuring transparency in finalizing national lists. It also underscores the growing need for inclusive representation and the empowerment of women in Sri Lankan politics. Further clarification from the SJB leadership regarding Lakshman Kiriella’s exclusion is awaited, as the issue continues to draw attention within political circles.
