The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has accused the JVP-led government of betraying the socialist ideals of those who sacrificed their lives during the 1988–89 uprising, while pursuing neoliberal economic policies and introducing what it described as repressive legislation.

FSP Mass Organisations Secretary Duminda Nagamuwa made the remarks while delivering the commemorative address at the party’s 37th Il Maha Viru commemoration, held at the Yakkala Town Hall on Friday (13).

Nagamuwa said the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), which once fought against state repression, was now strengthening the same mechanisms it had opposed for decades.

“The JVP, which represented the generation that sacrificed their lives alongside Rohana Wijeweera, is now in power. However, turning its back on that history, the government is pursuing a neoliberal economic and political programme completely different from the socialist objectives of that generation. This is a tragedy,” he said.

He criticised the government’s proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Act (PSTA) and Prevention of Organised Crimes Act (POCA), claiming the legislation would grant excessive powers to the police, military and executive.

Nagamuwa said it was particularly ironic that the JVP-led government was seeking to introduce laws he considered more repressive than the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), which had been used against political activists during the 1988–89 period.

He further accused the government of abandoning its earlier commitment to abolish the executive presidency, alleging that it was instead attempting to strengthen executive powers.

Turning to the 2027 Budget presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Nagamuwa claimed the proposals failed to provide meaningful relief to ordinary citizens.

He alleged that the government had failed to reduce the tax burden on the public while providing benefits to wealthy business interests.

Nagamuwa also criticised the government’s continued implementation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, claiming that its economic policies were worsening the financial difficulties faced by ordinary people.

He accused the administration of prioritising the interests of powerful business groups and foreign powers, including the United States and India, over the needs of the public.

The FSP representative warned that mounting economic difficulties and dissatisfaction with government policies could eventually trigger another wave of public protests.

He said his party would not remain silent in the face of what it considered undemocratic measures.

Nagamuwa concluded by stating that the most meaningful tribute to those who died during the 1988–89 uprising would be to continue their struggle towards achieving socialism.

The commemoration was held under the theme, “Socialism: The dream of a generation that fought at the cost of their lives.” (Newswire)