Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna Propaganda Secretary Vijitha Herath slammed the move to form a national government, stating that people did not vote on January 8 to see a government of this nature.

Speaking to local media, Herath said that the government has started increasing the Cabinet, in a similar fashion to the former regime of Mahinda Rajapaksa. This is an added burden to the people, Herath pointed out.

He further stated that people voted for President Maithripala Sirisena to abolish executive presidency, establish democracy and punish those who were responsible for corruption. However, instead of punishing, the government is protecting such people, Herath claimed.

He also asked as to what came of the pledge to appoint the Cabinet of Ministers in a scientific manner.

The policy statement released by Maithripala Sirisena during the election campaign categorically stated that the Cabinet will be appointed in a scientific manner. Furthermore, it said that the Cabinet will be limited to 25. However, the Cabinet of Ministers now has 40 members.