The Sunday Times has reported allegations involving an advisor of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), who is accused of making millions of rupees by promising wealthy businessmen placements on the party’s national list. A prominent rice merchant from the Polonnaruwa district is said to have paid a staggering Rs 500 million to secure a seat, but his name did not appear on the national list. His complaints to senior party officials were met with a dismissive response, and he was advised to seek a refund from the person he gave the money to.
Another businessman from Kalutara district, who has not disclosed the exact amount paid, also claims to have handed over a “large sum” to secure a parliamentary seat. This businessman, previously associated with the Yahapalana (good governance) administration and involved in the medical sector, was the first to publicize such payoffs.
Official Inquiry
In response to these allegations, SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara denied that the party had received any such funds. He clarified that no funds had been formally received by the party leadership. However, the allegations suggest that the money may have gone into the pockets of a party associate rather than directly to the party itself. An influential group within the SJB is now calling for an official inquiry into these claims and plans to write to party leader Sajith Premadasa to investigate the matter further.
Additionally, in a different political context, President Dissanayake received a warm welcome from Chinese President Xi Jinping during a visit to Beijing this week.
SJB Insider
The insider’s comment about the businessman reflects a cynical view of the situation, suggesting that just as in business where profits and losses are a natural part of the game, the same logic applies to political deals.
