SJB to crack down on members who criticise leadership

By Yohan Perera

Leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has taken a firm stance against party members who publicly criticise the party leadership and its decisions. Thereby,  those who criticise the party and the leadership in public will face the axe, Chief Opposition Whip Gayantha Karunatilleka announced yesterday.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Karunatilleka said Premadasa had informed the SJB Working Committee that disciplinary action would be taken against members who make public statements undermining the party leadership or the party as a whole.

“The leader emphasised that this move is necessary to maintain party discipline,” Karunatilleka stated. “However, members are encouraged to raise their concerns and discuss issues at appropriate internal forums such as the Working Committee, the Management Committee, or the Parliamentary Group meeting.”

In addition to disciplinary measures, the Working Committee has also decided to remove underperforming organisers and appoint new ones in their place.

The decision comes amidst growing internal dissent. Notably, MP Chaminda Wijesiri has been vocal in his criticism, recently calling for a complete overhaul of the party’s structure, including leadership changes. Some candidates who contested the recent local government elections also expressed dissatisfaction, claiming they were denied entry into local bodies through the party lists. Several area organisers have echoed similar frustrations, accusing the leadership of making appointments without adequate consultation.

Party General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara also confirmed the party’s decision to take action against those who criticise the party in public.