By Fareez Farook –
Fareez Farook
“I will do my best to fully restore the people’s confidence in politicians. I am not a conjurer, I am not a magician. There are things I know and things I don’t know, but I will seek the best advice and do my best. For that, I need the support of everyone.” – Anura Kumara Dissanayake
Since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1948, Sri Lanka has experienced a tumultuous political landscape marked by ethnic tensions, economic challenges, and political instability. Amidst this backdrop, the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), or the People’s Liberation Front, emerged as a significant political force advocating for radical change and social justice. Founded by Rohana Wijeweera, the JVP has evolved from a revolutionary Marxist-Leninist movement to a key player in the country’s democratic process. In recent years, under the leadership of Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the JVP has spearheaded the formation of the National People’s Power (NPP) coalition, which aims to bring about systemic change in Sri Lanka’s governance. This article explores the main policy aspects of the JVP and NPP, their focus on policies over personality cults, and the contributions of their leaders and members.
Political Landscape and the Birth of the JVP
Post-independence Sri Lanka was characterized by political instability, economic challenges, and ethnic tensions. The dominance of the United National Party (UNP) and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) often led to policies that favored their supporters, resulting in widespread disillusionment among the populace. Against this backdrop, Rohana Wijeweera, a charismatic leader who broke away from the Ceylon Communist Party (Maoist) founded the JVP in 1965, driven by a desire to address socio-economic inequalities and political corruption that plagued the country. The JVP’s ideology was rooted in Marxist-Leninist principles, and it sought to mobilize the rural and urban poor against the ruling elite.
Early Leadership and Armed Uprisings
Under Wijeweera’s leadership, the JVP quickly gained a reputation for its radical approach. The party’s first major action was the 1971 insurrection, an armed uprising against the government, which was brutally suppressed. Despite this setback, the JVP continued to grow in influence, particularly among the youth and working-class populations.
The party’s second insurrection occurred between 1987 and 1989, during which it opposed the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord and the presence of Indian Peacekeeping Forces. This period was marked by significant violence and repression, but it also solidified the JVP’s position as a formidable political entity.
Transformation and Political Participation
Following the violent uprisings, the JVP underwent a significant transformation. The party renounced armed struggle and entered mainstream politics, participating in parliamentary elections. This shift allowed the JVP to advocate for its policies through democratic means, focusing on issues such as social justice, anti-corruption, and economic reform.
Leadership: Rohana Wijeweera and Anura Kumara Dissanayake
Rohana Wijeweera: The founder of the JVP, Wijeweera was a charismatic and revolutionary leader who inspired many with his Marxist-Leninist ideology. His leadership was marked by two significant armed uprisings in 1971 and 1987-1989, aimed at overthrowing the government and addressing socio-economic injustices. Despite his radical approach, Wijeweera’s vision of a just and equitable society continues to influence the JVP’s policies.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake: In contrast to Wijeweera’s revolutionary tactics, Dissanayake has adopted a more pragmatic and inclusive approach. Under his leadership, the JVP has renounced armed struggle and embraced democratic participation. Guided by Dissanayake’s visionary stewardship, the JVP has formed the National People’s Power (NPP) coalition, which includes professionals, trade unions, and other progressive groups. This coalition aims to create a corrupt-free government by appointing qualified and honest individuals to key positions. Dissanayake’s focus on good governance, transparency, and accountability has immensely helped the party gain broader acceptance and support.
Infrastructure and Mandate
Historically, Sri Lanka’s infrastructure development has been marred by corruption and inefficiency. Major political parties often engaged in nepotism and cronyism, awarding lucrative contracts to their supporters in exchange for political loyalty. This system led to substandard projects and a significant waste of public resources.
The JVP, through the NPP, seeks to eliminate these middlemen and establish a transparent and accountable governance system. By prioritizing merit and integrity, the JVP aims to ensure that public resources are used effectively for the benefit of all citizens.
Challenges and Prospects
The JVP’s journey has not been without challenges. The party’s radical past and association with violence have been obstacles to gaining widespread acceptance. However, its commitment to fighting corruption and promoting social justice has resonated with many Sri Lankans disillusioned by the traditional political establishment.
Main Policy Aspects of the JVP
The JVP’s policies have historically focused on social justice, anti-corruption, and economic reform. Key policy aspects include:
Anti-Corruption: The party has consistently campaigned against corruption, nepotism, and cronyism, calling for transparent and accountable governance3.
Social Welfare: The JVP supports comprehensive social welfare programs, including free education and healthcare, to uplift the marginalized sections of society4.
Democratic Governance: The party promotes democratic principles and the protection of human rights, opposing authoritarianism and advocating for the rule of law5.
Formation and Policies of the NPP
Under Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s leadership, the JVP has formed the National People’s Power (NPP) coalition, which includes professionals, trade unions, and other progressive groups. The NPP’s policies build on the JVP’s foundational principles but also incorporate modern governance practices:
Inclusive Growth: The coalition aims to create an inclusive economy that benefits all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic background.
Focus on Policies Over Personality Cults
Unlike other major political parties in Sri Lanka, which often revolve around charismatic leaders granted supreme power, the JVP and NPP focus on policies and collective leadership. This approach ensures that the party’s vision and goals are prioritized over individual ambitions.
As Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated, “We can meter out punishments to corrupt people only if we are not corrupt. There has to be an incorrupt movement. We will strengthen the institutions. I am not corrupt (Mama dushithayek Nove – මම දුෂිතයෙක් නොවේ). Crime takes place when the ruler becomes corrupt. At present, parties give nominations, minister posts to corrupt politicians.”
Contributions and Sacrifices
The JVP’s journey has been marked by significant contributions and sacrifices from its members. Many party members, including leaders like Wijeweera, lost their lives during the armed uprisings and subsequent government crackdowns. Their sacrifices have laid the foundation for the party’s current success and its commitment to social justice and democratic governance.
Ideological Viability and Global Examples
The JVP/NPP’s ideology, centered on social justice, anti-corruption, and inclusive growth, is not far-fetched. With the people’s support, these principles can lead to significant positive changes in Sri Lanka. Successful examples from around the world demonstrate the viability of such ideologies:
Scandinavian Countries: Nations like Sweden and Norway have implemented policies that promote social welfare, economic equality, and environmental sustainability, resulting in high standards of living and robust economies.
New Zealand: Under the leadership of Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand has focused on inclusive growth, environmental protection, and transparent governance, earning global recognition for its progressive policies.
Conclusion
The JVP’s evolution from a revolutionary movement to a key player in Sri Lanka’s political landscape is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. As the main force behind the NPP, the JVP is paving the way for a new era of governance characterized by transparency, accountability, and social justice. If given the opportunity to implement its vision, the NPP could transform Sri Lanka into a model of good governance and equitable development.
As Anura Kumara Dissanayake aptly put it, “We are not just fighting for power; we are fighting for a new political culture that serves the people, not the politicians.”
By embracing this fundamental change, Sri Lanka has the potential to become the envy of other nations, showcasing the power of honest and effective governance.
Mani / October 10, 2024
‘By embracing this fundamental change, Sri Lanka has the potential to become the envy of other nations, showcasing the power of honest and effective governance.’
Another writer arguing for Sri Lankan exceptionalism! As long as Sri Lankans remain frogs in the well, trying hard to keep pulling their fellow citizens further down into the well, there is no way that the country is going to be the envy of any other nation. For the record, there have been effective governments in the world (in terms of economic prosperity and the wellbeing of people), but never honest governments. Honesty and governments do not go together. Dream on, Mr. Farook!
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Rahumathulla / October 11, 2024
I agree with mani, but it was the past. Without a dream and hope the good will never happen. If any other nations can do, Srilanka can do it too.
We never had a honest leader with a right vision and a practical plan to execute and achieve the desired outcome. AKD within a few days has shown what is possible paving the way for a culture shift within the political class. The new rules adopted for who can fit the NPP inner circle is a noteworthy criteria. For sure there will be bumps on a road ahead and I conquer the assessment of Fareez is a genuine possibility. It’s upto the Srilankan population to hang on to the lifeline thrown at them when they were drowning and the sharks are circling around to eat the left over pieces.
Let’s support keep the principles alive by helping whatever means we can to keep this dream alive with gradual gains to the finish line.
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FareezF / October 11, 2024
Mr. Mani,
Thank you for your candid feedback. While I understand the skepticism, I believe dreams have always been the foundation of progress. Many of the greatest transformations in history began as seemingly impossible dreams. Nations that once struggled have turned their fortunes around through determination and visionary leadership. While the road may be long, I choose to hold onto the belief that with collective effort, integrity, and the courage to imagine something better, we can turn dreams into reality.
As Nelson Mandela once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Dreams may seem lofty, but they are often the first step toward meaningful change.
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SJ / October 13, 2024
“As long as Sri Lankans remain frogs in the well, trying hard to keep pulling their fellow citizens further down into the well,”
Sorry, as far as I know, frogs are not in the habit of doing such things.
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A frog that understands its well with no pretense to global knowledge survives better than many that venture out only to be picked out by a predator like a snake or a big bird.
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SJ / October 13, 2024
“Since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1948, Sri Lanka has experienced a tumultuous political landscape marked by ethnic tensions, economic challenges, and political instability. “
A little over the top I would say.
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FareezF / October 14, 2024
Thank you for your feedback. I understand my statement might seem strong, but it reflects the significant challenges Sri Lanka has faced since gaining independence in 1948. Here are some examples to illustrate this:
Ethnic Tensions:
• The Sri Lankan Civil War (1983-2009) is a prominent example of ethnic tensions, where the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) fought for an independent Tamil state. This conflict resulted in significant loss of life and displacement.
• The 1956 Sinhala Only Act, which made Sinhala the sole official language, marginalized Tamil speakers and contributed to ethnic discord.
Economic Challenges:
• Sri Lanka has faced numerous economic challenges over the decades, including balance of payment crises.
• The recent economic crisis, starting in 2022, saw the country default on its debt for the first time in history, leading to severe shortages of food, fuel, and medicine.
Political Instability:
• Sri Lanka has experienced frequent changes in government and leadership crises. For instance, the constitutional crisis in 2018 saw two individuals claiming to be the legitimate Prime Minister.
• More recently, widespread protests in 2022 led to the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa amid public outcry over economic mismanagement.
These examples demonstrate the complex and often challenging nature of Sri Lanka’s political and economic landscape since independence. I hope this provides clarity on why I chose to describe it as such. If you have further insights or suggestions, I would be happy to discuss them.
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SJ / October 14, 2024
Have you given thought to the positive things that happened between 1948 and 1977?
Despite the communal violence of 1958, there was ethnic peace until 1977 despite the aggravation of the national question, while other countries in the region faced communal violence. (Even the UK and US were not free of it.)
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My objection was to a rather thoughtless sweeping statement.
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old codger / October 14, 2024
SJ,
The claim that nothing positive happened in 72 years has been peddled so successfully that even some who lived through most of those years believe it. The young ones may be excused.
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