The National People’s Power has secured control of the Kurunegala Municipal Council through an unexpected alliance with Rishad Bathiudeen’s All Ceylon People’s Congress, appointing one of its MPs as Deputy Mayor. The unlikely partnership has now reshaped the council’s leadership, marking a strategic political shift in the region.
In a strategic move that has surprised many, the National People’s Power (NPP) has successfully established control over the Kurunegala Municipal Council, a key local government body that saw no clear majority in the last local government elections.
The breakthrough came with the support of the All Ceylon People’s Congress (ACPC), led by former cabinet minister Rishad Bathiudeen. As part of the power-sharing agreement, the NPP has secured the mayoral post while granting the deputy mayoral role to a representative from Bathiudeen’s party.
The municipal council election results revealed a tight contest. The NPP’s candidate clinched victory with 12 votes, narrowly defeating the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) candidate who garnered 10 votes.
This alliance not only solidifies NPP’s urban presence but also marks a significant political shift in Kurunegala, demonstrating the party’s willingness to form coalitions with minority-led political groups to strengthen local governance. Political analysts suggest that this deal could be a test case for future cross-party collaborations in other contested councils.
The decision to collaborate with Bathiudeen, a controversial figure in Sri Lankan politics, is already sparking debate within political circles and civil society. However, NPP sources defend the move as a pragmatic step to ensure stability in the council and effective delivery of services to the people of Kurunegala.
With this new formation, the Kurunegala Municipal Council is expected to begin its new administrative term under shared leadership, bringing together ideologically diverse representatives under one agenda local governance and development.
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