Lalkantha says ready for armed struggle if required 

• Asserts that to build a better nation, it is imperative to attain control over State power
• Notes renewed enthusiasm among people to ensure an NPP win at upcoming Presidential poll
• Claims JVP must become an inclusive home for a diverse range of individuals
• Asks party cadres to make sacrifices to end rule of oppressors perpetuating a ‘75 year curse’

National People’s Power (NPP) member and former Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) MP K.D. Lalkantha managed to raise some concerns yesterday when he quite controversially expressed his readiness to participate in an armed struggle if the need arose.

“Our goal is to establish a better nation. To achieve that, we must have state power. Since 1931, Sri Lankans have consistently chosen their governments through universal suffrage, more so than any other country in the region. On the flip side, there have also been armed struggles and other attempts. I have been a part of such movements in the past. If circumstances require it, I am willing to participate in such a struggle once again. But that’s a separate discussion,” he said. 

The former MP made these comments at a party electoral organising meeting held in Kandy yesterday. 

The MP highlighted that the people, initially disheartened by the delay in Local Government elections, have now been reinvigorated with the prospect of a presidential election taking place by August 2024. “This renewed enthusiasm is driven by their desire to secure a victory for the NPP to end this 75-year curse,” he said.

Former Minister and current independent MP Vasudeva Nanayakkara, a seasoned leftist and a strong supporter of the Rajapaksa family, has expressed that the JVP should take the lead in opposing the IMF-supported policies of the current government, according to Lal Kantha. “He has said there is no other solution left in Sri Lanka,” Lalkantha claimed. 

However, Lalkantha added, “He should recognise that it is not the JVP, but rather the NPP, that is leading this effort now,”

The former MP stressed that while encouraging diversity within its ranks in the NPP, the fundamental goal of capturing state power should remain resolute and unwavering. “I hold a great appreciation for diversity, but we must steadfastly adhere to our primary objective,” he emphasised.

He hinted that the JVP, known for its reputation as a highly disciplined party, needs to evolve from that image to become an inclusive home for a diverse range of individuals. “That’s when we will achieve victory,” he said. 

Lalkantha further urged the party’s members to make sacrifices. “We must possess unwavering determination. There exists a class of oppressors perpetuating this 75-year curse. Sacrifices are essential. We cannot succeed without sacrifice, without passion, without acts of heroism,” he said.