SJB MP and Mathugama PS Opposition members allege death threats

By Yohan Perera   

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Kalutara District MP Jagath Vithana and opposition members of the Mathugama Pradeshiya Sabha have alleged that they received death threats from ruling party politicians, in what they describe as part of a broader effort to seize control of hung local authorities.   
“Both I and all opposition members of the Mathugama Pradeshiya Sabha received death threats from ruling party figures yesterday,” MP Vithana claimed. “A vote to elect a chairman for the Mathugama Pradeshiya Sabha is scheduled for Monday, and as a result, the opposition members and I are currently in hiding for our safety” he said. Vithana further stated that he had informed the Speaker of the situation. “The Speaker asked me to meet him tomorrow. I told him, “What if the NPP kills me today?”   
The MP said he intends to raise a privilege issue in Parliament regarding the threats. The incident highlights growing concerns over intimidation and political maneuvering in the control of local government bodies, particularly in areas where no party holds a clear majority.