Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser and MP Namal Rajapaksa declared that government pressure, intimidation, or imprisonment would not deter the party, adding that past violent political tactics associated with the 1988–89 period should not be revived.

“We have come through challenging times, and we will face more challenges ahead. But no amount of pressure will stop us. Prison will not stop us. Even if a flagpole is pulled down, it will not stop us,” Rajapaksa said, addressing an event in Thambuttegama on 17 January.

Referring to accusations and political attacks targeting his family, Rajapaksa said the current generation represented a new political culture. “Those 88/89 games are over. Do not prepare to bring them back. That was during the time when Mahinda Rajapaksa was there; now you have Namal Rajapaksa. Do not think you can repeat that,” he said.

The event was held to appoint SLPP divisional coordinators for the Anuradhapura District, with former MP Tissa Kuttiarachchi and a number of former ministers, parliamentarians, provincial councillors, and local organisers in attendance.

Rajapaksa also commented on the recent visit of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to his home village, stating that while he had arrived late, he did not intend to “spread hatred, envy, or anger,” but to advocate for a political vision rooted in cultural values.

“We believe in a society where Sri Lanka’s heritage and Buddhist culture form the foundation, and where all cultures are protected within that framework,” he said, adding that the country needed a political force “that loves the soil of this land,” rather than one driven by opportunism.