Former Kalutara District MP Lalith Ellawala, who previously crossed over from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) to the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), has announced his decision to retire from politics. Speaking at a press conference in Panadura today, Ellawala revealed that he is resigning from all positions within the SJB, effective immediately.
Ellawala expressed strong dissatisfaction with the party, accusing the SJB of being undemocratic and lacking unity. “The SJB is not what we expected. There is no unity within the party, despite calling itself ‘Samagi Jana Balawegaya.’ The party operates under a dictatorship, where those willing to work are stifled,” he said.
He further criticized the party’s actions following the Parliamentary Election, highlighting that only the Secretary of the SJB was included on the National List, suggesting a lack of opportunity for others within the party.
Ellawala warned that the SJB could eventually become irrelevant, likening it to “a fruit swallowed by an elephant.” With this, he stated that he has made the decision to step away from all political roles, marking the end of his political career.