by A Special Political Affairs Correspondent in Colombo
The ruling coalition, the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna’s (JVP) Central Committee has reportedly expressed strong dissatisfaction with the conduct and performance of most Members of Parliament (MPs) representing the broader National People’s Power (NPP) alliance, informed sources said under conditions of anonymity.
According to these sources, JVP Leader and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has openly criticized several NPP MPs, including those holding senior government positions, for what he described as poor performance and immature remarks on serious national issues. His discontent is said to reflect broader frustration within the JVP leadership over the direction and discipline of the alliance.
In response to what some party insiders have labeled a “crisis of leadership,” the JVP Central Committee is reportedly pushing for a significant cabinet reshuffle—potentially unprecedented in scope. Among the more controversial proposals being floated is the replacement of current Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya. Some factions within the party are said to be advocating for Minister Bimal Ratnayake to take a leading role, possibly even as Prime Minister. However, senior members of the JVP politburo have expressed concern that such a move may be premature and could risk destabilizing the alliance further.
Adding to the internal discord, President Dissanayake is believed to have expressed disappointment over the results of the recently concluded local government elections, which saw a notable drop in support for the NPP. He reportedly declined to issue an official statement following the release of the election results, citing concerns over the message it would send and predicting a potential domino effect in upcoming national polls.
