Bahujana Balaya Criticises Government Over Remarks on Kaduwela Mayor and Alleged Bribery

Bahujana Balaya has criticised government representatives over comments relating to allegations of bribery and corruption involving the Kaduwela Municipal Council.

Speaking at a media briefing, Bahujana Balaya representative Milinda Rajapaksha said his organisation viewed Minister Lal Kantha as a political figure with a different political ideology, but described trade union activist Ranjan Jayalal as someone who spoke openly about his views.

Rajapaksha referred to remarks attributed to Jayalal concerning the use of violence to obtain political power, saying they reflected a troubling attitude towards politics.

He also described the Kaduwela Municipal Council as one of the fastest-developing local authorities and questioned remarks that he interpreted as suggesting newly elected representatives should also enjoy the benefits of office.

Rajapaksha questioned whether such comments amounted to an indirect request for bribes or commissions.

He further criticised the response given by the Cabinet Spokesperson when questioned about the matter, saying it appeared to suggest that members of the government could not be involved in wrongdoing.

In a pointed remark, Rajapaksha said his organisation hoped Ranjan Jayalal and others would be able to celebrate Christmas peacefully this year.