The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) held a high‑level meeting on Monday (27) with senior leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), strengthening ties between the two leftist movements.

JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva hosted CPI(M) leaders Prakash Karat and Brinda Karat at the party’s headquarters. JVP Politburo member and Minister Bimal Ratnayake also joined the discussions.

Prakash Karat, who served as CPI(M) General Secretary from 2005 to 2015 and later as interim coordinator following the demise of Sitaram Yechury in April 2025, attended alongside Brinda Karat, the first woman appointed to the CPI(M) Politburo and former General Secretary of the All India Democratic Women’s Association.

Talks focused on the JVP and National People’s Power’s rise to political prominence in Sri Lanka, measures taken to stabilize the economy, and initiatives aimed at improving public welfare. 

The leaders also discussed government intervention in raising wages for plantation workers and broader efforts to foster a healthy political culture by eliminating corruption and dismantling privilege‑based politics. (Newswire)

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Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva yesterday met with India’s Deputy High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, in what was marked as Pandey’s final official engagement before concluding his three‑year diplomatic tenure in Colombo.

The meeting, held at the JVP headquarters, reviewed recent measures taken to strengthen ties between Sri Lanka and India. 

Silva expressed appreciation for Pandey’s friendly contribution during his posting, including India’s assistance to Sri Lankans affected by Cyclone  Ditwah.

As Pandey prepares to depart after completing his diplomatic duties, Silva extended best wishes for success in his future endeavours. (Newswire)

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The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) has strongly rejected claims published in the May 17 edition of a Sunday newspaper alleging internal tensions and a dispute during a meeting at its Pelawatte office.

In a statement issued today (18), the JVP said the report published in the newspaper’s political gossip column under the headline “Who kicked a chair at the Pelawatte meeting?” was “completely false” and a fabricated story with no basis in fact.

According to the newspaper report, disagreements had allegedly emerged during a meeting over the appointment of Eran Wickramaratne to head the Cricket administration and proposals to bring opposition figures into government positions, leading to tensions and even an individual kicking a chair.

Rejecting the claims, the JVP said no such incident or debate had taken place within either the party or the National People’s Power (NPP).

The party also denied suggestions that discussions were taking place regarding bringing opposition MPs into the government, stating that the NPP’s policy opposes political crossovers and supports legal reforms to prevent MPs from switching sides.

The JVP further noted that Eran Wickramaratne was appointed based on suitability for the role and not as part of any political arrangement involving opposition members.

The party accused some groups of attempting to create an impression of divisions between the JVP and the NPP and said the report appeared to have been published with political motives.

The JVP Media Unit said a letter requesting a correction had already been sent to the Sunday newspaper regarding the publication. (Newswire)

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The Socialist Youth Union (SYU) will launch its Youth Summit program under the theme “Youth Energy to Build the Nation” on May 16 in the Mirigama Divisional Secretariat area of Gampaha District.

Organizers said the initiative will expand across all Divisional Secretariat divisions island‑wide, with the second program scheduled to begin in Hambantota on May 17.

The announcement was made at a media briefing held today at the JVP headquarters in Battaramulla, attended by SYU National Organizer Eranga Gunasekara, Matara District Organizer Malshi Amasha, International Affairs Secretary Anjana Amarasinghe, and Education Secretary Mahesh Ambepitiya.

Gunasekara noted that the summit coincides with the 61st anniversary of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), describing it as an opportunity to remember those who dedicated and sacrificed their lives for national aspirations.

He said the summit aims to strengthen youth involvement in rebuilding the economy, safeguarding democracy, and creating a new political culture.

Gunasekara stressed that young people must play a greater role in meeting national challenges, adding that the summit seeks to build a new generation committed to the country, democracy, and social solidarity.

The program will be expanded from divisional to district-level and eventually to a national scale, with organizers inviting youth across communities to join under the banner “Youth Energy to Build the Nation.” (Newswire)

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A meeting between Vietnam Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam and Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva took place yesterday (18) at the party headquarters in Pelawatte.

The purpose was to brief the JVP on the decisions and future actions arising from the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam, held in Hanoi from January 20 to 23, 2026.

At the meeting, Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam explained the significance and importance of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

It was noted that during this Congress, the Communist Party of Vietnam and the country set targets for the period 2026–2030, and also agreed on two long‑term goals for 2035 and 2045.

Views were also exchanged on how Vietnam and Sri Lanka are preparing to face the current Middle East conflicts and the global crisis.

On this occasion, the JVP General Secretary conveyed congratulations to To Lam, who was re‑appointed as General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam at the 14th National Congress, as well as to the newly appointed Central Committee, wishing them success in their future work.

Representing the JVP were Central Committee member and Minister of Media and Health Nalinda Jayatissa, Inter‑Company Workers’ Union General Secretary Janaka Adikari, and JVP International Committee member Kalpana Madhubashini.

Representing the Socialist Republic of Vietnam were Deputy Head of Mission Le Van Huong, First Secretary Nguyen Van Binh, and Ambassador’s Secretary Ramya Nilangani. (Newswire)

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A delegation from the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), led by General Secretary Tilvin Silva, departed for New Delhi this morning (Feb. 5) on an official visit to India. The group is reportedly visiting India at the invitation of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).

In addition to New Delhi, the delegation is scheduled to visit the Indian states of Gujarat and Kerala, where meetings are scheduled with the respective chief ministers.

The itinerary also includes visits to institutions focused on agriculture, industry, and technological development.

Joining Silva on the visit are General Secretary of the Inter-Company Employees’ Union Janaka Adhikari, MPs Karunananthan Elankumaran and Kittinan Selvarajah, Hemathilaka Gamage from the party’s media unit; and Attorney-at-Law Kalpana Madhubhashini, a member of the JVP’s International Committee. (Newswire)

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Padma Shri award-winning veteran Bollywood singer Anuradha Paudwal, who is currently visiting Sri Lanka, met with JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva on Wednesday (21 Jan) at the party’s main office in Battaramulla.

The occasion was also attended by JVP Central Committee member and Minister of Health and Media, Nalinda Jayatissa, along with First Secretary of the Indian High Commission Roshni Thomson, Director of the Vivekananda Cultural Centre Professor Ankuran Dutta, and Kaushalya Wickramasinghe, the organizer of the “Timeless Bollywood Melodies” musical program, among others.

Minister Nalinda Jayatissa extended his best wishes for the upcoming concert titled “Anuradha Paudwal Live in Sri Lanka – Timeless Bollywood Melodies” scheduled to be held tomorrow (23 Jan) at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, while both he and the JVP General Secretary were invited by the group to attend the event.

This meeting was regarded as an important occasion that further strengthened cultural friendship and exchange between Sri Lanka and India. (Newswire)

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A delegation from the International Department of the Communist Party of China visited the main headquarters of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) in Pelawatta, Battaramulla, yesterday (03) as part of an observation tour.

The delegation included Deputy Director General of the Information Centre of the International Department of the CPC, Kang Shuai, Associate Professor Jiang Wen of the Beijing Municipal Party School, and Director Zhang Guifeng of the CPC Information Research Centre, among others.

The group first visited the Colombo District Office of the JVP in Maharagama, where they held extensive discussions on the current natural disaster situation in Sri Lanka and the relief operations carried out for affected communities. 

The discussions were attended by NPP Members of Parliament Devānanda Suraveera and Lakmali Hemachandra, Maharagama Mayor Saman Samarakoon, Deputy Mayor Ranjani Naotunna, and Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Kasun Ratnayake, among others.

Later, at the JVP headquarters, the Chinese delegation met with Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Sunil Watagala. 

They discussed in detail the emergency disaster situation Sri Lanka is currently facing and the assistance being extended by China to overcome these challenges. The Deputy Minister expressed gratitude for the support provided by the CPC leadership. 

Kang Shuai noted that China, too, has faced numerous natural disasters and has managed them successfully, while also explaining the development plans undertaken by the Chinese government. The delegation highlighted that China is currently implementing the CPC’s 15th Five-Year Plan.

To further strengthen cooperation between the Communist Party of China and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, the CPC representatives in Sri Lanka also donated books to the JVP headquarters. (Newswire)

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today accused the government of using the newly introduced Praja Shakthi programme as a political tool to expand what he described as JVP-led control across grassroots structures.

Speaking at a joint media briefing held by opposition parties, Premadasa said the government promotes Praja Shakthi as a poverty alleviation and village development initiative, but the funding allocated is insufficient for such objectives. Instead, he alleged that the government is imposing higher tax burdens on the public while diverting state mechanisms to strengthen the JVP’s organisational network.

He claimed the programme functions not as a social welfare initiative but as a mechanism to transfer authority from elected representatives to JVP-aligned grassroots cadres. According to Premadasa, this would allow the party to influence Grama Niladhari divisions and local community structures from its headquarters, bypassing democratic accountability.

Premadasa further alleged that youth groups, civil security committees and legally registered community organisations are being gradually placed under a single centralised structure aligned with the JVP. He warned that even the composition of caste-based committees could soon fall under political influence.

He described the initiative as an emerging “constitutional authoritarian model” led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and argued it threatens democratic space and public representation. The Opposition Leader said the opposition firmly rejects the programme in its present form and will not allow the erosion of democratic freedoms.

Premadasa added that the opposition is prepared to unite to defeat what he called an authoritarian project and to restructure Praja Shakthi as an inclusive programme that empowers all communities irrespective of ethnicity, religion, caste or political affiliation.

Around 27 opposition MPs have signed a petition urging the government to immediately withdraw the circular issued in relation to the programme. (Newswire)

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The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna’s (JVP) commemoration ceremony marking the 36th Il Maha Viru Samaruma, the annual ‘Commemoration of November Heroes’ held in honour of those who sacrificed their lives, was held in Colombo.

The event was led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva at the Viharamahadevi Open Air Theatre in Colombo.  

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s full statement at the event is as follows; 

We have gathered here today to commemorate our comrades,  in their tens of thousands,  including Comrade Rohana Wijeweera, who built, gave life to and spiritually shaped our Party, founded thirty-six years ago. They made significant sacrifices and established enduring examples that still inspire us and impart deep lessons.  

For thirty-six years since 1989, we have spoken of them. We have commemorated them. Yet, this occasion is different from all those before. Back then, when we spoke of them, when we reflected on the qualities we had to embody within our movement, it was as a party striving to gain power. Currently, we refer to them as a political party that has successfully gained power. The lessons they taught back then helped us in achieving that victory. Likewise, those very lessons and experiences will continue to guide us in sustaining this power and uplifting the living standards of our people.     

What is required, then? Some individuals attempt to draw comparisons between this government and those from the past. But how can such comparisons be valid? Comparisons are only possible when two governments share the same characteristics. However, this government is distinct from those that came before it. Ours is a government founded on a robust, institutionalized connection with the people. Thus, as we move forward on this journey, there is a great deal we must learn from our predecessors.   

What has changed in us? We were once people who struggled with selfless devotion to gain power. Today, we are people who, with that same selflessness, struggle to use power to rebuild the lives of the people. The only difference lies between the purposes then and the purposes now. And in fulfilling those purposes, all of us are united in our effort. This is not the result of any individual’s struggle, but the outcome of the collective sacrifices and commitments made by everyone who has been part of this movement throughout its history. This transfer of power is the continuation of that struggle, not some miraculous achievement realised in three or four years.

What are these qualities? The same virtues that Comrade Rohana Wijeweera and our countless comrades taught us through the supreme sacrifice of their lives: the virtue of perseverance, never giving up, no matter how difficult the circumstances. It is our solemn duty to uphold that commitment, to continue the fight firmly and to fulfil our responsibility for the victory and progress of this nation.   

Our movement possesses a special quality, one that has been forged as the collective expression of each individual’s strength of character. Therefore, we have a duty, both individually and collectively, to protect that virtue.   

Compared to the time when we struggled to seize power, today there are many elements pointed at us, scrutinizing us. Why? At that time, they envisioned a movement affecting two, three, or possibly four percent and at most nine or ten percent of the population. Some said that such revolutionary movements exist everywhere in the world and always remain of that size. In Sri Lanka too, we accepted that as our reality. We never imagined that such a movement could come to power. Yet, something unexpected happened, that very two or three per cent rose to power in this country. As a result, many were thrown into disappointment, frustration and even psychological distress. Their attention has now turned towards us more than ever before; they are scrutinizing us much more than ever before.                     

Therefore, we have a responsibility to show that this power is not a tool to oppress the people, nor something to be worn arrogantly as a crown of pride. The path to gaining this power was by no means an easy one.

In 1989, thousands, including Comrade Wijeweera, sacrificed their lives for this movement. A large portion of the backbone of our organisation was lost. Yet, even in the face of torture, execution and imprisonment, they preserved the essence of our movement, the same essence that gave us the strength to rebuild in 1994. Thereafter, we rebuilt under immense hardship. Along this journey, we passed through several decisive crossroads. In 2008, part of the mass movement broke away and fell into the enemy’s hands. Only two months before, those who shared the same meals and rooms with their comrades suddenly turned against the movement and began to hurl every possible accusation against us.          

Initially, their criticisms seemed to gain traction. But today, neither those criticisms nor those who voiced them have life left in them. They live, yet they are like lifeless dying bodies. Then in 2011, a major internal crisis emerged in our organisational structure, a significant split. Many left the Party. Alongside that came a flood of false allegations and slander. As I said before, within weeks, people who had once stood together crossed over to the other side. Directly or indirectly, they began constructing theories in line with the wishes of the enemy, claiming that our path was wrong, that there existed a more revolutionary road and that our way would soon end in failure, that it would become the tool of a reactionary political force. They began speaking to the hearts of our comrades, trying to convince them of this “truer” revolutionary path. Some followed them. Yet today, those very people are the ones shaping the ideologies of regressive parties.

For all of us here, that was a great shock. Thus, we had to decide, would we allow the Party to fall under such internal reactionary tendencies, or would we fight against them? During that discussion, our General Secretary, Comrade Tilvin, said: “Brother, we could overlook this if that political tendency were correct. But the political line they follow is deeply flawed; therefore, we must fight against it.” That is how this movement was rebuilt. Those who once stood beside us, who guided us, departed. They conspired against us. They filled newspaper pages with slander against our comrades. But we had determination.   

We did not stop there. The public’s attention towards us began to fade. A Party that once represented 39 MPs fell to six, then to three. Our vote share dropped to three per cent. Within the party and even from the external society, we became a political movement dismissed by society. Even our friends said to us, “Comrade, if the people don’t want you, go and do something else.” But we had one unshaken determination that we would fight for this change until the day we die.   

Our elders gathered here today have, throughout their lives, remained steadfastly devoted to this movement. Though they may not have had the opportunity to attain the power they long hoped for, they never gave up. With faith, unity and brotherhood, they stood shoulder to shoulder, continuing their support without wavering. Some individuals raised doubts about the origins and timing of power. Some argued that for us to grow from three percent to real strength, we would have to rise by 1500 %. Others said that even if power were won, there would be no team to sustain it, no capacity to forge international relations, no ability to manage the economy. They spread only negativity and doubt.   

Yet within this movement were men and women, mothers and fathers, who refused to surrender. With determination and hope, they dreamed of a brighter tomorrow. Those very people are gathered here today. You have always carried hope in your hearts. And I firmly believe that the hopeful dream we all once shared together has now been realized we have attained power.  

Never did us plan the moment we would gain power. We simply worked with genuine commitment. Power was never even placed upon our agenda.

Following the 2019 election, our movement’s support dwindled to 3%. The political and economic crises, along with societal perceptions of us, pushed us to the brink. Even before the excitement surrounding both the Presidential and Parliamentary elections had faded, a government with a two-thirds majority in Parliament and a President who secured 6.8 million votes appeared robust. We were convinced that power was once more within reach.

During a discussion with university academics on Zoom, I said that we had already prepared a plan to gain power that we would achieve it next. After the meeting, one of the academics called me privately and asked, “Did you say that merely to encourage the group, or did you truly mean it?” And I said, “We truly meant it because we know we can do it.” Thereafter, we worked tirelessly for it walking through villages, working for a new path without rest. We had the determination and faith that the next moment of transition would bring power into our hands. If our efforts were to be recorded, it would be known as one of the most active and determined movements in Sri Lanka’s political history.

A rare moment had arrived when our vision aligned perfectly with the will of the people. For the first time in history, another party succeeded in forming a government with the largest number of Members of Parliament positions. Today, we have stabilised certain sectors and others are well on their way. But the stability of a government does not rest upon the number of parliamentary seats it depends on how deeply the people are bound to that Government. Even today, we can proudly say that even those who did not vote for us are watching with confidence and trust.

At the same time, we must pursue profound political transformation. The immense wealth concentrated at the top must flow down to the grassroots. The living standards of our ordinary citizens must be raised. We understand the dignity and social worth of the village farmer. It is not merely their economic value that we must restore, but the respect and recognition they deserve in society. 

Our natural resources, our strategic position and our human potential these must all be wisely managed, so that their benefits are shared among the people. Yet, before all else, we must establish economic stability.

Today, the value of the dollar changes from one day to the next, it is unstable. We must possess the ability to forecast what the economy will face tomorrow. That is the most essential feature of any sound economy: the ability to see ahead. In the past, we lacked that foresight.

In 2021, international rating agencies warned that our economy was at risk. But the Minister of at that time dismissed it as an international conspiracy. What followed? The dollar soared to nearly 400 rupees; in the black market, even 420 and 430. Inflation climbed to 70%. Neither the government nor the people could take decisive action. Professionals and doctors left the country. Hospitals faced severe shortages of specialist physicians. No one could predict what lay ahead for our nation. That was the state of the country then.

But today, I can tell you with confidence: within just one year, we have built an economy and a political system stable enough to forecast what tomorrow will bring. We can now foresee that this government will remain steady. Remember that well and do not doubt it. We can predict where the economy stands and what will happen in the year ahead.

Many say that in 2028, we must repay our debts. Yes we shall. We are building an economy capable of doing so. In truth, we have been conservative in our projections. We forecasted a budget deficit of 6.7 percent because we believed we could perform even better. And indeed, for the first time in Sri Lanka’s history, the deficit was reported at 5.2 percent.

In the past, forecasts were always exceeded economists predicted five percent and ended up at ten. But for the first time, we have exceeded our revenue targets. Some sarcastically said, “Even a Montessori child could do that.” I smiled, because it was not an insult it was, in fact, a recognition that even a child, given the right foundation, can succeed.

Today, we can forecast with clarity where the economy will stand next year, and the year after. That, my friends, is what truly defines a stable economy. We have transformed our nation to reach that point.

Now, the Treasury is in possession of real funds. Yes, funds that truly exist. In the past, resources were spent before they even reached the Treasury again and again they were squandered. In 2017, the Treasury was operating on an overdraft of 575 billion rupees. 

In simple terms there was no money in the account, yet spending continued. That was the country we inherited.

But today, we have brought the Treasury under disciplined management. We have restored financial order, mobilised revenue and ensured that every rupee is accounted for. As a result, we now have the ability to control the monetary market effectively.

My friends, we have endured, we have persevered, and we have transformed. And together, we shall continue to build a nation that is not only stable but strong, confident and self-reliant.

Our financial market had once fallen out of control. Treasury bill rates had risen to 33–34% and as a result, average bank interest rates climbed to 35–36%, bringing the entire economy to a standstill.

Today, investors in Treasury bills know that the government has adequate financial reserves. When we participate in Treasury auctions, if the offered interest rate is too high, we ourselves purchase the bills. Therefore, we have been able to maintain Treasury bill interest rates at around 8.3% for an extended period. This stability has also enabled banks to keep their interest rates at a lower and more sustainable level.

If the Treasury remains inactive, the government’s financial control begins to weaken. However, today we have built a stable and resilient economy. We are providing relief to the best of our ability.

We are aware of the issues faced by potato and onion farmers. Currently, the government does not have a proper mechanism to purchase potatoes and onions. While there is a system in place for the government to purchase paddy, no such mechanism exists for these essential crops such as potatoes and onions. Therefore, under this year’s Budget, we have allocated Rs. 1000 million to establish a mechanism, similar to the Paddy Marketing Board, using Sathosa to purchase potatoes and onions. This type of initiative has not been implemented in the past 76 years. Every year, when the potato and onion harvest season arrives, the same problem recurs.

We have established a mechanism that engages directly with the daily lives of consumers, the core sectors of the economy and the most critical points of economic activity, allowing it to intervene as a competitor alongside the government.  Through this approach, we aim to protect both consumer rights and producer rights, while safeguarding the country’s financial independence. At the same time, we have strengthened the rule of law. Today, we have proven that no one in this country is above the law. Everyone is equally accountable under it, a fundamental and essential achievement for our nation.

Furthermore, our country is not merely facing a drug menace it is also threatened by a criminal underworld intertwined with that menace. We have made a firm decision to eradicate these dark criminal networks in order to protect our motherland and safeguard the future of our children.

Our nation has also suffered from a history of broken national unity. Whenever social unrest or conflict arose, it was always the ordinary people who suffered, while rulers used racism and nationalism as tools for their own survival. They fueled divisions based on ethnicity and culture for political gain. We will never allow racism to rise again.

Today, we can confidently invite the citizens of this country, the industrialists, entrepreneurs and Sri Lankans living abroad to join us in rebuilding the nation. We have already laid a strong and stable foundation. This is the balance sheet of one year’s progress. We invite all investors, entrepreneurs and expatriate Sri Lankans to bring new investments into the country. Through this year’s Budget, we have strengthened economic stability and opened the path for sustainable development. Certain sectors have already been liberalized and there is still a long journey ahead one that will lead us toward a stronger and more prosperous Sri Lanka.

Therefore, our entire system of governance and administration is being directed toward fulfilling our responsibility to the people. To achieve this, our Ministers and Members of Parliament are working tirelessly, without hesitation. This is a duty that must be fulfilled, a commitment between the government and the people. However, while striving to meet this responsibility, we have seen the rise of a “voice-cut” style of politics; where some believe that mere sound represent the voice of the people. We will never misuse the powers of government to act against the opposition. Our actions are not divided by party or political affiliation; we carry out our responsibilities impartially. At the same time, we are building a progressive people’s movement to stand firmly against this regressive political culture and move the nation forward.

Unlike in the past, we will never use the Criminal Investigation Department, the Bribery Commission, the Judiciary or state power to suppress the opposition. However, our party and our movement, backed by the strength of the people’s mandate, will completely silence those petty, disruptive voices. As we begin the coming year, our goal must be to rally the full force of the people’s power against regression and backward politics. We will rise above these political distractions and stay focused on our mission. We do not use governance as a tool of political manipulation. In governance, everyone is equal and before the law, every citizen stands equal.

However, we must build the widespread possible people’s movement against political regression and we are fully prepared to do so. We have become the heirs of a long and historic struggle and today, we stand as the present-day bearers of that legacy. As a result of that journey, we have come to power. Therefore, more than anyone else, we carry upon our shoulders the spiritual weight and responsibility of our brothers and sisters who shaped that history. We are not merely seated in borrowed chairs, nor have we inherited power by chance. Let us remember that this power was born out of great sacrifice and dedication. Hence, it is not only our responsibility, but also that of the citizens who entrusted us with this mandate to safeguard and uphold this power with integrity.

Today, those opposing us find themselves in such difficulty that they cannot even mount a credible criticism against us. We have two responsibilities, one to history and the other to the present of our citizens. We need to guarantee that this power is never used as a means for selfish purposes or as a weapon controlled by a select few. Power should never be an objective in itself. We need to recognize that our power is meant to support the citizen, equally and to collaborate in the effort to restore this nation.

Moreover, our victories are not achieved individually but through collective effort. Even under extremely challenging conditions and politically adverse circumstances, the key to achieving unexpected success has been our unity. Our governance is sustained by this very unity through the cooperation between the government and the citizens and between the government and our allies. This is why we share a collective bond and we must uphold it together.

We must unite and struggle together. We have carefully prepared comprehensive plans, all designed to advance this collective effort. It is on this basis that we place our trust in the wisdom, experiences and life lessons of our departed brothers and sisters from 88–89, whose guidance has been accumulated over our long history to help us attain power and achieve victory. For this purpose, I urge everyone to unite in solidarity.

May victory be with us all!

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The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to provide information on the incident on Tuesday (02 Sept) in which a group of NPP and JVP members had forcibly entered its Gampaha District Office.

Filing a Right to Information (RT) request, FSP Propaganda Secretary, Duminda Nagamuwa, sought information from IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya. 

In a letter to the IGP, Duminda Nagamuwa raised 16 questions regarding the Police force’s actions related to the incident. (Newswire)

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A tense situation was reported near the JVP headquarters in Pelawatte after the Police prevented a group of unemployed graduates from entering the premises.

A group of unemployed graduates had staged a procession to the JVP Headquarters seeking a discussion with government officials. 

However, they were prevented from entering the premises, with the location being deployed with heavy Police security.

A tense situation then arose when the Police pushed back at the protesters and moved to remove their banners. (Newswire)

A tense situation was reported near the JVP headquarters in Pelawatte when a group of unemployed graduates was stopped from entering the premises by Police. pic.twitter.com/uhM6tnRQsO

— NewsWire (@NewsWireLK) August 11, 2025

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Officials of the Chinese Communist Party are of the view that a government must remain in power for at least 15 to 20 in order to implement meaningful reforms in Sri Lanka, according to Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva.

Silva made the remarks while discussing the JVP delegation’s recent visit to China in June, undertaken at the invitation of the Communist Party of China (CPC). During the tour, the delegation, led by Silva, held meetings with senior CPC and government officials.

“They (CPC officials) said it will take around 15 to 20 years to implement the changes envisioned, and that means winning another three to four elections. They said we can’t make the changes we envision within five years. It took them about 30 to 40 years to transform China,” Silva said in the interview.

He said discussions with Chinese officials focused on long-term governance, party development, and economic management.

“We can’t operate like an opposition anymore. We need to be more efficient and move quickly. There is a lot we need to learn about governance, management and the economy which they’ve said they will help us with,” he added.

The delegation also explored potential partnerships for knowledge-sharing and technical cooperation with the CPC, according to Silva. (Newswire)

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The National People’s Power (NPP) has established power in the Balangoda Urban Council and the Thanamalvila Pradeshiya Sabha. 

The NPP secured a majority of votes in the elections held during the inaugural sessions of the two local councils today. 

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) media unit confirmed that, accordingly, the NPP has secured control of a total of 200 local councils so far. (Newswire)

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A delegation from the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), led by General Secretary Tilvin Silva, has met senior leaders of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) during its ongoing visit to China.

The delegation, which is in China at the invitation of the Chinese Communist Party, met the Head of the Organization Department of the Central Committee of the CCP, Shi Taifeng, in Beijing yesterday.

During the meeting, Shi Taifeng emphasized the long-standing friendship between the JVP and the Chinese Communist Party, underlining the importance of continuously enhancing the political and theoretical knowledge of party cadres. 

Pointing out that China is ready to share its experiences with the JVP whenever needed, he also noted that agreements were reached earlier this year between China and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to provide support aligned with Sri Lanka’s economic development program.

Responding, General Secretary Tilvin stated that the visit had strengthened the friendship between China and Sri Lanka, as well as between the JVP and the Chinese Communist Party.

During visits to rural areas in Zhejiang and Guizhou provinces, the delegation gained a clear understanding of the measures taken to develop those communities. Tilvin Silva said the JVP hopes to draw from those insights to contribute to Sri Lanka’s own development plans.

He also expressed appreciation for China’s continuing support, ranging from the historic Rubber-Rice Pact to present-day assistance, such as supplying fabric for Sri Lankan school uniforms. Tilvin Silva revealed that school uniform materials are expected to be distributed to Lankan schools again in 2026. (Newswire)

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Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary, Tilvin Silva, has refuted claims by certain opposition politicians claiming that the government has betrayed the country by entering into several agreements with India. 

Tilvin Silva challenged the opposition to prove if any of the agreements have been signed in a manner that could be detrimental to Sri Lanka. 

Stating that the agreements signed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit have been openly announced to the public, he said they are beneficial to both nations. 

“Both Sri Lanka and India benefit from these agreements. The NPP Government has proven to be the government to have received the most international support in Sri Lanka’s history. Earlier, they claimed there was no international support or help, but now that we are receiving international help, they are claiming we are betraying the nation,” he said.

Tilvin Silva pointed out that the former Ranil Wickremesinghe-led government, together with the Rajapaksa clan, attempted to sell the local milk producer, MILCO, to an Indian company, but the move was stopped due to the NPP Government having approached India on the matter. 

Acknowledging that the NPP/JVP had lobbied against several projects in the past, Tilvin Silva said they protested the Indo-Lanka Agreement in 1987, which saw the Indian Army entering Sri Lanka, as it was deemed a betrayal of the nation.

“Yes, we did protest against India in the past. However, India has changed now, and so has the world. Just because we protested in 1987, should we still hold on to that anger? No. An issue arose then, for which we protested, and it was later over. At times, they accuse us, claiming that we are not on par with global developments. But as we start working in such a manner, they are accusing us of betraying the nation,” he added.

The JVP General Secretary made the remarks while addressing a public rally in view of the upcoming local government elections. (Newswire)

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A cash deposit has been placed on behalf of former Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) Parliamentarian Siripala Amarasinghe to contest the 2024 Presidential Election. 

The cash deposit was placed at the National Election Commission today for the former MP to contest the election as an independent candidate. 

Siripala Amarasinghe is a former Member of Parliament from Gampaha District representing the JVP.

As of this evening, a total of 15 candidates are reported to have placed their cash deposits with the National Election Commission to contest the Presidential polls. (Newswire)

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National People’s Power (NPP) Leader MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with Canadian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Eric Walsh at the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) Office in Colombo today (Mar 13).

According to the NPP, Second Secretary (Political) of the Canadian High Commission Patrick Pickering and JVP Executive Member MP Vijitha Herath also participated in the discussion.

The two parties discussed the current socioeconomic and political status in Sri Lanka, while they also held an intense discussion on the NPP’s policies to build national unity.

The NPP Leader’s upcoming visit to Canada to meet the Sri Lankan community in the country was also taken up for discussion, with the Canadian High Commissioner extending his wishes in this regard to MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake. (NewsWire)

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Amidst questions raised over NPP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s visit to India for discussions, SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa has welcomed Dissanayake’s Indian visit, signaling a potential shift in the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna’s (JVP) stance on Indian investments which the JVP had for years criticized and neglected.

Rajapaksa emphasized the importance of fostering unity and collective efforts in welcoming foreign investments to bolster Sri Lanka’s development agenda.

Rajapaksa’s remarks highlighted historical contexts, drawing attention to past JVP conflicts surrounding development projects like the Sampur power plant.

He further said that the Sampur Power Project was an example of the loss faced by the country as a result of the JVP’s anti-India policies.

“However, the JVP has now reached a different view and has engaged in a tour to India, which is a good thing,” he said.

Rajapaksa said that he believes, following their visit to India, the JVP will support investors coming into Sri Lanka.

A JVP delegation led by MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake is in India for a five-day visit on an invitation extended by the Indian government.

The delegation is scheduled to visit three cities —New Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Thiruvananthapuram — and hold meetings with government officials, and members of the business community, in addition to visiting centres of excellence in agriculture and industry. (NewsWire)

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Executive members of the National People’s Power (NPP) met the Head of Mission in Sri Lanka for the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Peter Breuer for a discussion. 

Issuing a statement, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) member Sunil Handunneththi said the meeting took place at the JVP Head Office in Pelawatte on Thursday (Jan 18).

He further said that Parliamentarian Dr Harini Amarasuriya, Executive members of the NPP Economic Council Sunil Handunneththi, Prof Anil Jayantha, Economic Analyst Dr Harshana Suriyapperuma, and Executive Committee member of NPP Muditha Nanayakkara participated in the discussion. 

Alongside, Peter Breuer, the resident representative of the IMF Saravath Jahan and Manavee Abeywickrama (IMF staff) also participated in the discussion. (NewsWire)

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