A blunt and combative speech by the Agriculture Minister signals an uncompromising political posture, rejecting legal niceties, symbolism, and restraint in the face of political attacks.
Minister of Agriculture K.D. Lalkantha has declared that governing is far easier for him than surviving years in opposition, warning political adversaries that he will not hesitate to retaliate when the moment is right. The minister made these remarks while addressing a public function, delivering one of his most aggressive political statements since assuming office.
Responding to comments made by filmmaker Asoka Handagama, Lalkantha rejected the view that holding power is more difficult than being in opposition. He said his party’s long years outside government, stretching back to 1965, were far harsher than governing today.
He described the current administration as healthier than the political climate his party endured in the past, recalling a period when colleagues were killed by traitors while operating in opposition politics. According to the minister, that experience shaped his political resolve.
Lalkantha said that while he often remains silent in the face of criticism, such silence should not be mistaken for weakness. “If you beat me, I will beat you,” he said, adding that retaliation would come at a time of his choosing.
He stressed that appearances and symbols are meaningless in political conflict. “It does not matter what you are wearing, whether it is a black coat, national dress or a robe,” he said. “If you are coming to do politics, leave them aside. We will attack no matter what you are wearing.”
Invoking Leninist teachings, the minister said legality is irrelevant when confronting an enemy. He used a military analogy, noting that catapults and artillery are not deployed with full force at once. Lalkantha concluded by stating that while government power has been obtained, true state power has not, and that Sri Lanka has not yet undergone a real revolution.
