Presidential candidate Dilith Jayaweera, representing the ‘Sarvajana Balaya’ alliance, asserted that the recent youth protests in Sri Lanka were a direct consequence of the failures of the country’s politicians. Speaking at a rally in Embilipitiya as part of his ‘Dilith Gamata’ constituency meetings, Jayaweera emphasized the need for substantive change rather than mere promises.
Jayaweera questioned the effectiveness of frequent policy statements and promises made every five years, asking, “Are we not going to move forward? Is there no way?” He criticized the repeated assurances without tangible results and highlighted the reasons behind the youth-led demonstrations.
Acknowledging both internal and external influences, Jayaweera stated, “This is why the youth of Sri Lanka took to the streets demanding a change. It cannot be said that there was no foreign influence. But these children…The selfish politicians in this country stirred them up.”
He called for new leadership, stating, “If you want a change, you have to have a different person. You should feel that change.”
