By Chanaka De Silva
SLFP’s Udith Lokubandara warns that Sri Lanka’s democratic space is shrinking fast, accusing the government of using fear, threats, and anti-protest rhetoric to silence the opposition and undermine political freedoms.
Sri Lanka Freedom Party International Affairs Coordinator Udith Lokubandara expressed deep concern over reports that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake allegedly discouraged public protest during a speech in Tangalle. Lokubandara said this type of statement, if true, suggests a worrying departure from democratic norms that safeguard the right to dissent.
He stated that such rhetoric represents a clear challenge to the country’s multi-party framework and emphasized that no elected leader has the authority to decide when citizens may express their opinions. Lokubandara said this situation is part of a broader pattern. According to him, several ministers, MPs, and local government members have recently issued indirect and direct threats that create an atmosphere hostile to political expression. He said the tone of these threats is similar to the JVP’s past associations with intimidation and political violence.
Lokubandara said the signs cannot be ignored and warned that Sri Lanka’s democracy is under pressure. In his role as International Affairs Coordinator, he confirmed that the SLFP’s Foreign Relations Division will present these concerns to the diplomatic community in the coming weeks.
He added that the international community needs to be aware of attempts to suppress the opposition and restrict protest. Lokubandara stated that the SLFP will resist any effort to suffocate democratic space. He urged the government to clarify its stance and reaffirm its commitment to political pluralism, warning that restricting dissent could harm Sri Lanka’s stability and global standing.
