By Mahim Mendis –
Dr. Mahim Mendis
“Always assume incompetence before looking for conspiracy” ― Niccolò Machiavelli
Sri Lanka stands at a critical juncture, three years after the historic 2022 ‘Aragalaya’ (uprising), which ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The uprising was a powerful reminder of the people’s capacity to challenge entrenched power structures. Yet, today, the landscape is rife with political maneuvering, ideological contradictions, malicious campaigns and fake news —particularly against the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and its leader, Sajith Premadasa.
Amidst the turmoil, right-wing neoliberals and Marxist hardliners continue to fan the flames of division, undermining efforts for a unified, progressive political future. The question remains: when will these factions learn the lessons of history?
History of Opportunistic Alliances
Sri Lanka’s political history is replete with hypocritical alliances and marriages of convenience. One need only recall the JVP’s partnership with Chandrika Kumaratunga’s administration—a paradoxical arrangement given the JVP’s violent history, including the assassination of progressive leaders like Vijaya Kumaratunga.
Fast forward to today, the National People’s Power (NPP)—an offshoot of the JVP—has positioned itself for national leadership. However, its actions, much like those of the UNP under Ranil Wickremesinghe, reveal a willingness to prioritize power over principles. The NPP’s promises of change have left voters disillusioned, as its leadership struggles to deliver meaningful reforms or articulate a coherent vision for the future.
Ranil Wickremesinghe: The Puppet Master
At the center of this political theater is Ranil Wickremesinghe, a veteran politician whose career has been defined by opportunism. Despite his lackluster leadership of the UNP, Wickremesinghe has maneuvered himself into a position of power, even becoming a guarantor of the current regime. His unwillingness to cede the political stage to Sajith Premadasa, a leader with genuine popular support, speaks volumes about his insecurities.
Wickremesinghe’s actions during the 2022 presidential election were particularly revealing. By framing the contest as a choice between himself and NPP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake, he sought to undermine Premadasa’s candidacy. This strategy not only exposed his own political desperation but also highlighted his refusal to acknowledge Premadasa’s potential as a transformative leader.
Sajith Premadasa: A Beacon of Hope
In stark contrast to Wickremesinghe’s self-serving politics, Sajith Premadasa has emerged as a principled and visionary leader. As a champion of social democracy, Premadasa has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the people’s welfare. His policies prioritize economic justice, social equality, and diplomatic integrity—a refreshing departure from the transactional politics of his rivals.
Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka, one of Sri Lanka’s foremost political scientists, has described Premadasa in his Financial Times column of 10th July 2025, as the most enlightened political leader in the country today. This endorsement underscores Premadasa’s potential to lead Sri Lanka out of its current crisis and restore its dignity on the global stage.
Media’s Role in Undermining Progress
The media, often manipulated by political interests, has played a significant role in perpetuating misinformation about the SJB and its leadership, while SJB remains strongly committed to liberal values inspiring internal criticism and debate over strategies and policies. Recent reports suggesting dissatisfaction within the SJB over Premadasa’s leadership are baseless fabrications, likely orchestrated by Wickremesinghe’s allies. These narratives not only undermine Premadasa’s credibility but also distract from the urgent need for progressive governance.
It is noteworthy that the SJB remains united in its support for Premadasa. As a member of the SJB Working Committee, I can confidently affirm that the party recognizes his unwavering commitment to the principles of social democracy and his ability to navigate Sri Lanka’s complex challenges.
Restoring Sri Lanka’s Dignity on the Global Stage
Under Premadasa’s leadership, the SJB has articulated a foreign policy rooted in positive alignment. This approach emphasizes mutual respect and national interest, in stark contrast to the current regime’s opaque dealings with foreign powers. Premadasa’s vision is inspired by his father, former President Ranasinghe Premadasa, who championed the rights of oppressed peoples worldwide.
The elder Premadasa’s decision to expel the Israeli Interest Section from Sri Lanka, in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, exemplifies the values that guide his son’s leadership. Sajith Premadasa’s commitment to these ideals is evident in his efforts to engage constructively with international lending agencies and advocate for policies that uplift the poorest segments of society.
Fighting for Economic Justice
One of Premadasa’s most significant contributions has been his opposition to policies that harm the most vulnerable. From resisting the implementation of Parate laws to challenging the privatization of the Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, he has consistently stood on the side of the people.
His appeals to global leaders as Opposition Leader, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demonstrate his diplomatic acumen and commitment to securing Sri Lanka’s economic future.
Premadasa’s leadership has also been instrumental in exposing the current regime’s failures, such as its mishandling of controversial container releases and its inability to meaningfully address tariff disputes with the United States. These actions underscore his determination to hold the government accountable and protect the interests of ordinary Sri Lankans.
A Vision for the Future
As the SJB works as the country’s main Parliamentary Opposition, it is actively reforming its structure to better serve the people. The party’s ideological foundation as a social democratic alternative positions it as the most viable option for progressive governance. Unlike the NPP or the UNP, the SJB under Premadasa’s leadership offers a vision of unity, dignity, and justice for all Sri Lankans.
The SJB’s approach is not about seizing power at any cost but about earning the trust and respect of the people. This commitment to ethical governance sets it apart in a political landscape dominated by opportunism and deception.
Conclusion: Call for Enlightened Leadership
Sri Lanka is at a crossroads, and the choices made today will shape its future for generations to come. The SJB, under Sajith Premadasa’s leadership, represents the best hope for a nation yearning for progress and stability. It is time for Sri Lankans to reject the divisive tactics of right-wing neoliberals and Marxist hardliners and rally behind a leader who embodies their aspirations.
As we navigate these challenging times, let us remember the lessons of history and strive to build a brighter, more equitable future. The SJB stands ready to lead the way—with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the people.
kp92 / July 15, 2025
I’m reminded of that one Samitha song: malithta gahanakota ai chanchala andanne?
To say that the NPP has no reformist agenda is simply a lie. There’s nothing else to even say there when we see what’s happening in front of our two eyes. And as long as telling the voter that they’re hallucinating and wrong is the only strategy the SJB has, it will continue to perform poorly. A party that was born out of nepotism can’t be the successor to the NPP. Whatever comes next has to be better, and the SJB is nowhere CLOSE to being that. The future lies in whatever political parties are formed outside the traditional establishment, not from within it. We tried it for decades, and it failed. Move on.
/
RBH59 / July 16, 2025
A Call for Enlightened Leadership Was Already Made
The call for enlightened leadership was already made.
But now, even his own party is describing him with the words “Asai Bayai” — Love and Fear.
He desires power, but fears responsibility.
“Grab the opportunity” means to take advantage of a rare moment before it’s lost.
When Gotabaya Rajapaksa offered him the presidency, he should have had the courage to take the deal.That moment required boldness — not hesitation.Sajith Premadasa draws inspiration from his father, President Ranasinghe Premadasa, a leader who stood for the rights of the oppressed and led with bold vision.But Sajith lacks the courage to take risks That’s why the election was lost — not because the opportunity wasn’t there, but because he didn’t have the will to act when it mattered most.
Sajith Premadasa once claimed that joining a faulted or corrupt politician was just an excuse used by others. Yet today, he is inviting Dayasiri—someone he once criticized—into his own party.
/
old codger / July 17, 2025
“Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka, one of Sri Lanka’s foremost political scientists, has described Premadasa in his Financial Times column of 10th July 2025, as the most enlightened political leader in the country”
Both descriptions are highly debatable, in my opinion.
/
leelagemalli / July 17, 2025
I am aware that Dr. Mendis was outspoken in his call for 6% of GDP to go toward education. I appreciated his support of youth in that way. But I don’t think he’s correct when he says that Dr. Dayan Jayathiaka is one of the most influential political scientists. According to what I understand, Dr. Jayathinkala was the favourite lapdog of Mahind Rajapakshe, the tyrant who did a great deal more damage to this country by failing to handle the so-called war victory and the praise showered upon him in the early post-war period. He should have been able to convince MaRa to prioritize using his influence to rebuild the country if he had been a truly good political scientist.
–
DJ loved to stand out in the country by promoting Chaunism and Sinhala nationalism. Looking back, we had some educated people in this country, but the majority of them were not involved in racism, nationalism, or any other characteristics that they used to fulfill their hidden tendencies instead of trying to find answers to Sri Lanka’s actual issues. I believe that DJ or the guys ought to have used their years of experience to build up new and young diplomats at the expense of taxpayers. The location of the other man, GLP, and Prof. Rajeeva Weerasinghe is unknown to the media today.
/
RBH59 / July 16, 2025
A true leader proves their worth in times of crisis, standing by the nation when help is most needed.”
When the country needed him most, Sajith was invited by Gotabaya Rajapaksa to take up the presidency, but he refused. Even his own party labeled him as “Asai Bayai” (Wants it but is afraid). Now, while the NPP—despite having no prior experience—is boldly taking charge of the government and bringing corrupt individuals to justice, Sajith is only now beginning to show some courage. He lacked the will to lead when it mattered most. How then can he now claim leadership under the banner of Premadasa’s legacy, while the SJB speaks of a foreign policy based on positive alignment, mutual respect, and national interest?
/
Nathan / July 17, 2025
… Ranil Wickremesinghe, .. whose career has been defined by opportunism.
Etch this in Gold!
Compare this with,
… Sajith Premadasa, a leader … .
Sajith heads a herd; He is not leadership material.
/
SJ / July 17, 2025
“Sajith heads a herd”
Who else does not?
/
leelagemalli / July 18, 2025
What if the majority of islanders form a herd? The results of recent elections demonstrated this clearly.
/
Pundit / July 17, 2025
Dr. Mendis. That the JVP assassinated Vijaya Kumaratunga was never proven in a court of law. In fact, it had allegedly been a former UNP “strong man’s” weapon that had been used in the dastardly act according to press reports that emerged after the notorious thug’s recent demise.
One could not fault you for wanting to make inroads into the faltering SJB’s leadership using your God given communication skills, but making unsubstantiated statements is unbecoming of a man of your education.
/
SJ / July 17, 2025
P
Has everything to be proven in court to be true?
Yours is a desperate defence of the JVP
*
BTW, has your counterclaim been proven anywhere, let alone a court of law?
/
leelagemalli / July 18, 2025
NPP is currently in a serious crisis, in my opinion.
–
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bS6oN9kalFw&t=239s
–
Dr. Amarasooriya, incumbent PM did not, in my opinion, say that history lessons ought to be eliminated from the high school curriculum. They used the same strategies to fight “Dawala Pathrikawa” thirty years ago. All of those NPP lawmakers who are dozing off ought to stand up for HA. We are absolutely certain that Jeppos would not have won the election if it weren’t for the NPP.
They ought to realize it at last now.
/
Raj-UK / July 19, 2025
It has been hosannas to AKD & now its SP?
SP has been in politics for a donkey’s years but what can he say about his contribution so far (apart from his vision to increase the Bhikku population & the number of temples? He failed twice in the Presidential elections, so time he understood that its time to throw in the towel. (In UK, if a party leader loses in an election, stepping down is expected for a new leader to take over with a fresh approach} RW has his faults but he took the challenge, & given where credit is due, he laid the framework for economic recovery which the NPP, although initially opposed, are now diligently following, whereas, SP didn’t have the guts (or the ability) take that challenge. If the SJB had a better leader, such as Harsha. it would not have been plain sailing for AKD.
”…Unlike the NPP or the UNP, the SJB under Premadasa’s leadership offers a vision of unity, dignity, and justice for all Sri Lankans…” Can the author please elaborate? All political parties have similar slogans but remain as only words.
Cont
/
leelagemalli / July 20, 2025
Raj, we have no more time to waste. We should, as a nation, allow RW to work out the kinks and continue his mission for another three years until the economy has stabilized.
–
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mF5d-vNm1TE
–
As LankaScot recently stated, as long as poverty persists, crime rates will remain uncontrollable. Unfortunately, this is also true in the country’s rural areas today.
–
We do not need to join the UNP, but RW is the only leader capable of carrying out the nation’s goals.
–
There is no need to call him president, but as the leader of all party commissions for a limited time, he will do the job properly. I don’t think anyone with any knowledge would ever stand up to him, because it’s becoming clear that JEPPOs are nitwits who can only cry and mislead the innocent masses.
He demonstrated it with a small cabinet (Shehan, Alisabry, Manosha, Harin, Siyambalapitiy and the few) despite thousands of obstacles in his path during that brief period. However, he is the person who worked tirelessly to reduce inflation from 70% to 3%. Was it ever possible for the AKD to take over? The entire world was happy with his 26-month rule, which provided some relief to a nation that was completely hopeless by July 2022.
/
Raj-UK / July 20, 2025
LM
I have often mentioned that I lost faith in RW long ago but considering the current leaders, RW is a reluctant choice. I thought that under RW, other capable leaders would join him & form a govt. while AKD, as President, keeping the Govt. on the straight & narrow path. However, RW is unelectable & I was willing to give AKD the benefit of the doubt but when it came to electing the JVP influenced NPP, it was an absolute NO. RW may not be charismatic & appealing as AKD but he is also honest as AKD is perceived to be. RW’s fault was he looked the other way & supported his cronies instead of cracking the whip for which he paid the price.
Today, the SLFP, SLPP & UNP are laggards & the SJB under SP is not capable of challenging JVP/NPP but I think under a capable leader like Harsha, & RW providing the benefit of his experience in politics & his international exposure. would be the best option instead of the rudderless NPP with JVP pulling the strings from behind. Of course, many taken up by the NPP rhetoric, will disagree but its time citizens of SL start taking stock & think rationally as you have been implying..
/
leelagemalli / July 20, 2025
Raj,
I don’t need to discuss the current state of affairs too much. The saddest reality of the Thambutthegama clown will be shown to you in the video that follows.
–
Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iCMz1nl2D4.
MP Anura Kumara and President Anura Kumara are very different from one another. If his senses aren’t compromised, I’m not sure how he wouldn’t kill himself in the days ahead.
The same ANURAKUMARA was adamantly opposed to the then-presidents and ministers importing more food items like rice, salt, and other imports. They now support the importation of the same goods. How is this possible?
/
Raj-UK / July 19, 2025
Cont.
Premadasa snr was not a visionary. If at all, his vision was flawed & sort term. He wasted public funds on useless monuments & celebrations. He was an uneducated guttermouth who even armed the LTTE (treason in times of conflict) & is responsible for the murder of policemen who were ordered to surrender to the LTTE, only to be brutally executed. He resorted to thuggery to silence his critics & responsible for the murder of Richard de Zoysa. Then there is the question of how he had the funds to educate SP & the sister in UK (thanks to kind benefactor, Jayakody?}
AKD is considered ‘clean’, is SP? Despite all those impressive international qualifications, SP failed to step in when the country was leaderless. SP has always been riding on his old man’s wave & was never able to forge his own capability, so , in my opinion, SP is an utter failure & time he stepped down gracefully, even at this late stage.
/
SJ / July 19, 2025
“He was an uneducated guttermouth who even armed the LTTE (treason in times of conflict) “
I think that you sound like a guttermouth here.
Premadasa’s decision to arm the LTTE was with a clear purpose. I think that he achieved it.
Had he survived the assassination attempt, he MAY have done a better job than CBK in dealing with the LTTE.
/
Raj-UK / July 20, 2025
SJ
I express my personal opinion. which readers may agree or disagree, whereas, Premadasa snr was known for using insulting language like a raving lunatic on public platforms, not a favorable trait for a country’s leader. Some may say it is lack of ‘good breeding’ but I would say its lack of a good education. Even junior understands & portrays himself as ‘refined & sophisticated’ with his high level of English & piano playing, distancing from his old man.
Arming the LTTE was either sheer stupidity or his short term vision & lack of understanding of international politics & diplomacy. The fact remains that the deaths of the policemen who surrendered to the LTTE were down to him
/
SJ / July 20, 2025
Others have personal opinions too. But no opinion need be factual.
*
Talk to any engineer who worked with him when he was minister. Several were s**t scared of him, but the man could be reasoned with and persuaded by constructive arguments.
Call arming the LTTE anything you like. It was a hard choice before RP when Indian military presence was a serious threat to the country’s integrity. He got the LTTE to do the hard job for him.
It was no personal decision as some like to imagine.
Let not prejudices against his personal background colour your vision.
*
As for foul language even JRJ has resorted to offensive language against Indira G for which IG never forgave him.
/