COLOMBO – The Samagi Janabalawegaya (SJB) party is facing escalating internal tensions after a former organizer announced his departure, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s direction and decision-making. Sagara Senaratne, who previously held a key organizing role in the SJB, stated that he has decided to contest the upcoming general election as an independent candidate due to the party’s failure to address critical issues and social opposition.
In an interview with an online news channel, Senaratne openly criticized the leadership and organizational strategy of the SJB, revealing deep-rooted political issues within the party. He attributed the party’s recent setbacks, including a poor showing in the presidential election, to a lack of effective leadership and planning. According to Senaratne, the party’s intellectuals, whom he referred to as “intelligent fools,” failed to retain their seats and could not devise a winning strategy for the election.
Senaratne expressed admiration for the political character of National People’s Power (NPP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake, suggesting that if SJB’s leaders displayed similar qualities, the party would not have suffered its recent electoral defeat. He lamented the absence of a dynamic and inspiring leadership figure within the SJB, which he believes has contributed to the party’s ongoing internal disarray.
In his critique, Senaratne also singled out party leader Sajith Premadasa’s inner circle, including his close friend, wife, and sister, accusing them of interfering in political matters and influencing key decisions. This involvement, according to Senaratne, has further exacerbated the party’s struggles and alienated members.
The former organizer’s departure adds to the growing list of challenges facing the SJB, which is grappling with internal divisions and a lack of cohesion following the presidential election. As more members express dissatisfaction and question the party’s future, concerns are mounting that the internal discord could lead to a significant collapse or split within the party ranks.
Senaratne’s comments have intensified discussions about the future of the SJB and raised questions about its ability to present a unified front in the upcoming general election. With increasing criticism from both within and outside the party, the leadership will need to address these internal conflicts swiftly to avoid further erosion of support and credibility.
