The real winner of this local government election is Mr. Sajith Premadasa and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB),” says the Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies.
The Executive Director of the institute, Mr. Manjula Gajanayake, speaking at a media briefing following the release of the full election results, stated that the 2025 local government election can be described as a rebirth for the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, led by Mr. Sajith Premadasa.
Below is what Mr. Manjula Gajanayake expressed:
“The best lesson to be learned from this election is for Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe and the United National Party (UNP). Do not postpone elections. Here is an example for Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe. The UNP’s name barely appeared in this results announcement.
The National People’s Power (NPP) generally tends to isolate themselves. They might need to improve their ability to listen to others. I believe they too will learn some lessons from this election.
The results from the North and East, especially in the North, show that the Tamil political party leaders and their parties have regained some of their lost reputation through this election.
As the main opposition, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya appears to have achieved a certain degree of growth.
On social media and across other digital platforms, Mr. Sajith Premadasa—leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya—was the most targeted figure, especially around May Day. However, we are pleased in a way about their political activism. At this moment, they are clearly trying to bring about change. Supporters seem to be reacting in unexpected ways to the online hostility directed at their leader. I think this election can be described as a kind of rebirth for them.”
