President Ranil Wickremesinghe has initiated a major reshuffle in the government, removing several high-profile pro-Rajapaksa parliamentarians. This strategic move is part of an effort to consolidate support for his presidential campaign and ensure alignment with his agenda. The decision reflects the ongoing power struggle within Sri Lankan politics, particularly as the country approaches a critical presidential election
On September 5th, President Wickremesinghe exercised his constitutional powers under Article 47(3)(a) to expel four state ministers from their positions:
- Premalal Jayasekara – Formerly Minister of Ports and Aviation
- Indika Anuruddha – Formerly Minister of Electric Power and Energy
- Mohan Priyadarshana de Silva – Formerly Minister of Agriculture
- Siripala Gamlath – Formerly Minister of Highways
These removals are part of a broader effort to purge the government of those who are seen as loyal to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his family.
List of Additional Expulsions:
The President’s decision extends beyond these four ministers. The following MPs, known for their strong allegiance to the Rajapaksa faction, are also being removed from government roles and activities:
- Mahinda Rajapaksa – Former President and MP
- Chamal Rajapaksa – Former Minister and MP
- Namal Rajapaksa – Former Minister and MP
- Shashindra Rajapaksa – Former Minister and MP
- Sagara Kariyavasam – MP
- Johnston Fernando – MP
- Jayantha Katagoda – MP
- Sanjeeva Edirimanna – MP
- Ranjith Bandara – MP
- W.D. Weerasinghe – MP
- U.K. Sumit – MP
- Tissa Kuttiarachi – MP
- Skilled Warrior – MP
- D.V. Chanaka – MP
- Indika Anuruddha – MP (also removed as State Minister)
- Prasanna Ranaweera – MP
- Isuru Dodangoda – MP
- Gamini Lokage – MP
- Marjan Faleel – MP
- Siripala Gamlath – MP (also removed as State Minister)
- Sarath Weerasekera – MP
- Tenuka Vidanagamage – MP
- Samanpriya Herat – MP
- Manju Lalit Varna Kumar – MP
- Nalaka Kottegoda – MP
- Mohan Silva – MP
- C.B. Ratnayake – MP
The President’s decision appears to be driven by a need to eliminate factions within the government that are perceived as obstructing his political goals. The expulsions are meant to eliminate potential sources of opposition within the government and to strengthen Wickremesinghe’s position ahead of the presidential election
Political Reactions and Impact:
- Supporters’ View: Supporters of President Wickremesinghe argue that removing these MPs is crucial for maintaining a unified and effective government. They claim that these expulsions will help in rallying support for the President’s policies and ensure a clear focus on the upcoming election.
- Opposition’s View: Opponents and Rajapaksa loyalists criticize the move as a power grab and an attempt to stifle dissent within the government. They argue that the expulsions are a politically motivated maneuver to suppress alternative voices and consolidate control.
The President has reportedly issued warnings to other government officials and MPs to align with his agenda or face similar consequences. This ongoing purging of pro-Rajapaksa elements is expected to continue as the election approaches, reflecting the high stakes and intense political maneuvering in Sri Lankan politics.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated as both sides prepare for the upcoming presidential election.
