In a hard-hitting interview with the Sri Lanka Guardian, political analyst Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka has sounded a dire warning about the economic policies proposed by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the leader of the National People’s Power (NPP). Dr. Jayatilleka compared Dissanayake’s economic agenda to the extreme policies of Cambodian dictator Pol Pot, which led to catastrophic social and economic upheaval in the 1970s.
Dr. Jayatilleka emphasized that Dissanayake’s proposed reforms could destabilize Sri Lanka’s economy and society in ways that are difficult to fathom. “If these policies were implemented, the country could witness an unimaginable level of social instability within a very short time,” he warned, stressing the potential dangers of radical economic shifts that echo past authoritarian models.
In the interview, Dr. Jayatilleka also explored wider geopolitical issues, touching on the political fallout in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s ousting in a violent uprising following her 15-year rule. He discussed the significance of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third consecutive term, which he believes has serious implications for South Asia, particularly in terms of regional dominance and political realignments.
Other global topics covered include the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, as well as China’s expanding global influence, which Dr. Jayatilleka views as a pivotal factor shaping the new world order.
The full interview will be published in Sri Lanka Guardian over a three-day period, beginning Monday.
