Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has strongly criticized the politicization of the Civil Security Committee system, claiming that it is being misused to exert political pressure and undermine democratic processes at the grassroots level.
Speaking at a meeting held in Chilaw with Puttalam District Local Government Councilors and members of the Women’s Councilors’ Forum representing the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, Premadasa stated that the original intention behind establishing Civil Security Committees was to ensure law and order, safeguard public security, and protect the rights and freedoms of citizens through community engagement.
He emphasized that when these committees were first introduced, they operated with community leadership and participation, and were never politicized. Membership and positions were open to both politically affiliated individuals and those without any party involvement.
However, Premadasa alleged that the current administration has turned these committees into political tools, particularly by allowing the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) to distribute committee positions and make public appointments through party and public offices. He described this as a fraudulent process aimed at applying political pressure on rival groups.
“The present actions are deeply concerning,” he said. “This politicization is not limited to Public Security Committees. It has spread to youth societies, rural development societies, women’s societies, pensioners’ organizations, and even funeral aid societies. It is a calculated attempt to manipulate civil society through political influence.”
He further noted that in areas where public opinion is strong and united—both in villages and cities—these manipulative efforts have failed. “Where communities stand tall in resistance, the success of this shameful and deceitful political project has collapsed,” he added.
Premadasa concluded by urging the public to stand against the appointment of Public Security and Civil Security Committees through political offices. “We must collectively resist this process and question the legitimacy of these unlawful committees,” he said. “Only by empowering citizens at the grassroots level can we put an end to this abuse of power.”
