SJB Education Union Secretary Accuses Government of Breaking Election Promises and Undermining Democracy

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has accused the government of breaking a series of promises made in its policy manifesto, particularly regarding civil liberties, the economy and the education sector.

Speaking at an SJB media briefing on November 4, Priyantha Pathberiya, Secretary of the Samagi Education Employees’ Union, criticised the government's plans to introduce new anti-terrorism legislation.

He said the government had previously promised to abolish the Prevention of Terrorism Act and emergency regulations, while members of the current administration had opposed such laws when they were in the opposition. However, he alleged that the government was now seeking to implement legislation that was even more restrictive than existing laws.

Pathberiya also criticised the government's economic management, claiming that the economy had deteriorated and that promises made to various sectors had not been fulfilled.

He alleged that the government was increasingly influenced by India and China and accused it of failing to apply the law equally to everyone while moving towards authoritarian governance.

Addressing the cost of living, he claimed that inflation had increased, unemployment had risen to 43 per cent, and fuel prices had been increased on six occasions under the current administration. He said the public was becoming increasingly impoverished and struggling to meet daily expenses.

He further accused the government of introducing repressive measures to suppress public opposition and undermining parliamentary democracy.

Concerns Over Education Sector

Pathberiya also raised concerns about the government's handling of the education sector, claiming that teachers and paddy farmers had been placed under increasing pressure while ordinary people were struggling with the rising cost of living.

He alleged that the government lacked a clear direction and a coherent education policy.

He also criticised what he described as the establishment of substandard private educational institutions, pointing to numerous vacancies in the Principals' Service and irregularities in the recruitment of teachers.

He concluded by criticising the conduct of government Speakers, making a broader allegation about the administration's leadership.