Twenty-seven Opposition MPs have signed a petition urging the government to immediately withdraw the circular related to the Praja Shakthi program, citing concerns over political misuse and threats to democratic accountability.
Speaking at a joint media briefing, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said the government is leveraging the initiative to consolidate JVP-led control over grassroots structures.
While the program is promoted as a poverty alleviation and village development initiative, Premadasa said funding is insufficient and State mechanisms are being redirected to strengthen the JVP’s organisational network.
He alleged the program effectively shifts authority from elected representatives to JVP-aligned grassroots cadres, allowing political influence over Grama Niladhari divisions, youth groups, civil security committees, and community organisations.
He described this as an emerging “constitutional authoritarian model” under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake”, warning it undermines public representation and democratic space.
The Opposition pledged to oppose the program in its current form and called for a restructured Praja Shakthi initiative that inclusively empowers communities across all ethnic, religious, caste, and political backgrounds.
The briefing was attended by MPs including Sarvajana Balaya leader Dilith Jayaweera, SJB’s Dayasiri Jayasekara, New Democratic Front MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena, and Independent Group MP Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna.
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