In a dramatic political twist, the National People’s Power (NPP) has formed control of the Kolonnawa Urban Council with surprise support from an SJB MP prompting police protection and shaking up the local political landscape.
A dramatic turn of events unfolded at the Kolonnawa Urban Council this morning (June 18), where the National People’s Power (NPP) successfully secured the Chairmanship amid political unrest and an unexpected alliance with the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB).
The NPP, which held 9 of the 19 seats in the Council, was technically in the minority. However, a tense and chaotic atmosphere broke out during the official council session held to elect the new leadership. Amid the commotion, 9 of the opposition MPs walked out, boycotting the proceedings.
In a surprise move, Susil Kumara, the SJB MP who received the highest number of preferential votes from his party, remained in the Council chamber. He publicly declared his support for the NPP, shifting the power balance in their favor.
Following the secret ballot, Dhammika Wijayamuni of the National People’s Power was elected Chairman of the Kolonnawa Urban Council with 10 votes. The Vice Chairmanship was awarded to Saman Seneviratne.
The defection triggered immediate tension, and the supporting SJB MP was seen exiting the building under police protection to avoid retaliation or further confrontations.
This political development has sparked new debate about internal fractures within the opposition and the expanding influence of the NPP in local government bodies across the country.
