“Underworld culture replacing development culture in the country,” says Opposition Leader
03-Nov-2025.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stated that an underworld culture has replaced the culture of development in Sri Lanka, and that the public now questions whether the “new Sri Lanka” they hoped for has really materialized.
He made these remarks while addressing a public rally held on November 1 in Maligawatta East and Kettarama areas of the Colombo Central electorate for the membership development of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB).
He continued:
“Instead of a development culture, an underworld culture prevails in the country today. People are asking whether the new Sri Lanka we envisioned has been created.
The present government, holding municipal, parliamentary, and presidential powers, has failed to deliver on its promises, concessions, and commitments.
The slogans about creating a city shining with development have not been fulfilled. Instead, the underworld culture is operating across the country.
People now live in fear — uncertain if they will return home safely after leaving. Fear of shootings and murders prevails.
Social security for citizens no longer exists. National security has deteriorated, and due to the government’s incapacity, law and order have been handed over to criminal gangs and the underworld.
As a result, the nation lives every moment in fear and suspicion. Democracy is being buried, and the country is drifting toward one-party rule.
With local council leaders being killed and opposition MPs receiving death threats, the nation is moving toward a stage where the underworld controls society.
Law and justice have collapsed, and jungle law prevails. All social institutions have been politicized.
Instead of spreading false stories, the government must fulfill its duty and immediately ensure the safety of people’s representatives.
The government has failed to maintain law and order. If it truly intends to suppress narcotics and underworld groups, it must act on its promises and stop the shootings, murders, and gangster attacks.”
