Kalutara, Sri Lanka – Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa has strongly criticized President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, accusing him of prioritizing political theatrics over governance. Speaking at a meeting with Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) candidates from the Kalutara district ahead of the upcoming local government elections, Rajapaksa condemned the President’s approach and defended the legacy of his father, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
“It makes me laugh when I see the current President scolding my father and driving down the highway,” Namal said. “We don’t engage in politics like that.”
He accused President Dissanayake of taking credit for rapid achievements within six months while undermining past leaders. Rajapaksa argued that it was during his father’s tenure that Sri Lanka witnessed the most effective functioning of Pradeshiya Sabhas and Provincial Councils.
He went on to contrast the current administration’s style with the SLPP’s political philosophy, stating that their party does not resort to character assassination or exploit personal matters for political gain. Instead, he claimed the SLPP takes its message directly to the people, grounded in policy and past performance.
Namal Rajapaksa also criticized the government for what he described as frequent excuses and inaction.
“They’re constantly whining that the Pradeshiya Sabhas aren’t theirs, that they can’t get things done. We never did that. Even in 2018, when we won the Pradeshiya Sabha elections, we had only around 34 MPs and didn’t control Parliament—but we worked,” he stated.
He accused the current administration of abandoning its own policy manifesto and misleading the public, highlighting that government ministers now openly admit that not everything promised will be fulfilled. He questioned why resources were spent printing thousands of manifestos if they had no intention of implementing them.
Turning to issues of law enforcement and governance, Rajapaksa alleged that the police force had become politicized, with officers being transferred or appointed based on political affiliations rather than merit.
“Today there’s no difference between the President’s speech and the Police Spokesman’s press briefing. Both are talking about catching thieves, but nothing is happening,” he said.
Rajapaksa also condemned the government’s handling of national security and law enforcement, claiming that internal political infighting has left the country vulnerable. He referred to recent shootings in rural areas and the lack of effective government response as examples of declining public safety.
He ended his speech by saying the current government uses scapegoats and distractions to cover up its shortcomings.
“This week it’s Chamara Sampath. Before that, it was Daisy Achchi. Every week there’s something new. Yes, we must take action on serious issues like the Easter attack, but national security should never be politicized.”
Rajapaksa’s remarks reflect the sharpening political rhetoric as the country prepares for local elections, with opposition parties seizing every opportunity to criticize the performance and priorities of the current government.
