Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Theldeniya Organiser Mahesh Senanayake stated today (10 December 2025) that significant social unrest has arisen because the country is being governed by an administration incapable of accepting responsibility or accountability. Speaking at a press conference held at the SJB headquarters, Senanayake alleged that the President, Prime Minister, and government MPs are evading their duties while focusing their energy on attacking Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa. He accused the government of using various individuals to slander the opposition and intimidating public servants who are performing a great service to the country, rather than prioritising the rescue of disaster victims.
Senanayake emphasised that it is the fundamental duty of a government to pay compensation to victims, rescue stranded individuals, and repair damaged roads during a crisis. He noted that while previous administrations had successfully carried out such tasks, certain factions within the current National People’s Power government are attempting to convince the public that these standard duties are being performed for the first time in history. He strongly criticised the government’s initial arrogance, recalling statements made by government figures claiming they required no external help to restore normalcy, and questioned how they could serve the people effectively with such an attitude.
The SJB Organiser highlighted that Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa had correctly fulfilled his responsibility in Parliament on 27 November 2025 by requesting a budget suitable for the disaster situation and calling for a supplementary estimate. Senanayake pointed out that while the government initially claimed a supplementary estimate was unnecessary, the President is now requesting one to be passed. He noted the irony that the government, which mocked Premadasa’s suggestions, is now forced to implement the very measures he proposed.
Senanayake further stated that the SJB would not oppose any decision taken for the genuine benefit of the country. However, he insisted that a responsible government should focus on its duties rather than criticising the opposition. He called for an immediate end to unacceptable “mud politics” during this time of national calamity and urged the government to stop criticising external parties who come forward to assist in relief efforts.
