SJB Raises Concerns Over Flooding, Disaster Relief and Government Policies at Media Briefing

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has raised concerns over the government’s response to climate-related disasters, urban flooding, disaster relief and proposed legislation, during a media briefing held on November 11, 2026.

Former Minister Buddhika Pathirana, along with several local government representatives, addressed a range of issues, criticising the government’s handling of current challenges and calling for immediate action.

Buddhika Pathirana Calls for Urgent Action on Flooding and Disaster Relief

Former Minister Buddhika Pathirana said Sri Lanka was already experiencing the long-term and medium-term impacts of climate change.

He stressed that the government must take immediate measures to address flooding in urban areas and provide urgent relief to people affected by adverse weather conditions.

He also called on the government to allocate funds from the national budget for disaster management and ensure that sufficient resources were available to respond to emergencies.

Chamila Lorensuhewa Criticises Proposed Anti-Terrorism Legislation

Chamila Lorensuhewa of the Weligama Urban Council questioned the government's moral authority to introduce the proposed anti-terrorism legislation.

He claimed that the proposed laws could undermine citizens' fundamental rights and weaken the authority of the judiciary.

He further argued that legislation of this nature must include adequate safeguards to protect human rights, adding that such protections were lacking in the proposed bills. He accused the government of attempting to create fear among the public through what he described as repressive legislation.

Madushika Rodrigo Criticises Government and Local Authorities

Madushika Rodrigo, a member of the Kaduwela Municipal Council, strongly criticised the government's performance, describing it as ineffective and lacking the ability to manage the country.

She alleged that local government institutions under the administration's control were also failing to fulfil their responsibilities.

Referring to the situation in Colombo, she claimed that even basic responsibilities, such as cleaning city drains, were not being properly carried out by the mayor.

She also made strong remarks about the government's overall leadership and its handling of national affairs.

Gamini Gunawardena Highlights Disaster Management Failures

Gamini Gunawardena of the Yatinuwara Pradeshiya Sabha said the government was unable to respond effectively to disasters affecting the country.

He pointed out that several provincial roads in the Kandy District had been obstructed, raising concerns about the government's ability to manage emergency situations.

He further accused the government of repeatedly misleading the public, declaring that while the government might be benefiting, the country was suffering.

Gunawardena also claimed that people displaced by Cyclone Ditwah were still waiting for permanent housing.