A political storm intensifies as Sirisena’s blunt corruption claim collides with rising dissent within government ranks and Rajapaksa’s bold comeback signals amid Sri Lanka’s economic strain.
Former President Maithripala Sirisena has reignited controversy by declaring that there are thieves in every government, further fueling the ongoing national conversation around corruption, governance, and political accountability in Sri Lanka’s evolving political landscape. Reflecting on the Central Bank fraud case that unfolded during his presidency, he pointed out that the commission established to investigate the matter failed to deliver meaningful outcomes, even though it was led by Supreme Court judges. Sirisena also stated that he remains willing to support any renewed investigations into the case as a former head of state. He made these remarks during a media interaction held today.
In a parallel political development, signs of internal unrest within the ruling coalition have begun to surface more visibly. Reports indicate that 12 Members of Parliament have formally written to the Malama Party headquarters in Pelawatte, outlining governance failures and calling for immediate corrective measures. This group is said to include two cabinet ministers, three deputy ministers, and approximately seven backbench MPs, with two members currently overseas. According to party sources, a major issue troubling these MPs is the sharp decline in their personal financial standing compared to the income levels they maintained prior to entering politics.
These lawmakers are not traditional political figures but professionals who entered the political arena through the National People’s Power, also known as the Jathika Jana Balavegaya in Sinhala. Among them are former university lecturers, senior defense sector officials, legal professionals, medical practitioners, and others from diverse career backgrounds. Their growing dissatisfaction is being interpreted as a significant indicator of unease among educated and professional individuals within the current governing structure.
Meanwhile, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa has openly indicated that the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna is preparing a strategic plan to regain political power in the coming year, suggesting that a potential political shift may be on the horizon. Addressing a party gathering at the SLPP headquarters on Nelum Mawatha, he noted that this year’s May Day, which coincides with a Poya day, will be observed through religious activities instead of the traditional political rally. He also mentioned that he intends to observe the day in a spirit of reflection and penance. Rajapaksa further stated that while the New Year represents a personal victory for him, the government’s future remains uncertain, especially as rising living costs continue to burden citizens and limit their ability to celebrate the festive season in the usual manner.
