By Callistus Davy
A political activist, crusader for fairness, and convenor of the Aragalaya movement has alleged that a sinister organisation—branded the “Parking Mafia” of Colombo—could seize control if elected in next month’s local government elections.
Addressing a media conference, activist Pradeep Charles supported his claims by displaying photographs and naming individuals he claimed were rogue candidates on the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) list, led by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa.
He challenged Premadasa and the accused candidates to prove him wrong on Wednesday, April 23, at the Colombo Municipal Council premises, where he said he would arrive with documentary proof.
“You can come in your numbers to prove your innocence. I will be there alone with a desk, a chair, and documents. Bring anyone you want,” Charles declared.
To back his claims, Charles said he was in possession of documents that would be presented to any member of the so-called mafia who dared to challenge him. He added that he had filed a petition in court seeking a stay order against what he described as rogue candidates in the fray.
“Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, what are you doing by nominating corrupt elements and rogues on your party list to contest for the Colombo Municipality? What kind of victory are you trying to give the people?” Charles asked.
He claimed that of the 119 candidates on the SJB list, 70 were tainted by corruption, including one individual who is still facing trial for allegedly storing swords in a mosque after the Easter Sunday bombings in 2019.
“Parking spaces in Colombo have been acquired and sold to Pettah businessmen for between Rs. 250,000 and Rs. 300,000. These candidates have offices in one location and parking lots in another,” Charles alleged.
He also said he was prepared to face any physical threats from the so-called Parking Mafia.
Charles’ outburst comes just two days before the country is expected to hear the name of the supposed mastermind behind the Easter Sunday attacks, as pledged by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
However, many believe that both government and opposition parties are running out of time and continue to exploit the suffering of Easter Sunday victims for political gain.
“I call on Opposition Leader Premadasa not to play a double game—going around claiming justice for the Easter bombing victims while placing rogues and extremists on his candidate list,” said Charles.
