Colombo, May 27 — Amid a wave of resignations from frustrated Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) organisers, Parliamentarian Rohini Kaviratne has called for calm and urged both party leadership and local organisers to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve internal tensions.
Speaking to the media yesterday, Kaviratne acknowledged that nearly all SJB organisers are facing immense pressure at the grassroots level after being unable to secure appointments for their nominees in local government bodies. “There’s frustration because not everyone who expected positions could be accommodated. The number of seats we won simply isn’t enough,” she said.
“This has created a situation where organisers find it hard to face local members who worked during the campaign but are now left out,” she added, emphasizing that the matter should be addressed through discussion rather than division.
She cautioned organisers against hastily resigning and urged them to engage with party leadership to find common ground. “We need unity and clarity. Walking away now will only deepen the crisis,” Kaviratne said, also noting that similar issues could affect other parties dealing with limited electoral success.
Her remarks come as several high-profile resignations rocked the party over the weekend. Among those stepping down are Bandarawela and Badulla District Organiser Chaminda Wijesiri, Rattota Organiser and Deputy National Organiser Ranjith Aluwihare, Galle District MP Bandulalal Bandarigoda, Nuwara Eliya District Organiser Asoka Sepala, Dambulla Organiser Champika Wijeratne, and Matale Organiser Wasantha Aluvihare.
In response, SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara appealed for restraint and reaffirmed the party’s openness to reconciliation. “We urge our organisers to stay. These issues can be resolved amicably through discussion. There’s no need for resignations,” he said.
The SJB now faces the critical task of maintaining internal cohesion while preparing for future political contests.
