Government Has Betrayed the Political Aspirations of JVP’s Past Struggle: Hemamali Abeyratne

07-Apr-2026

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Hemamali Abeyratne, Convenor of the Women’s Movement for Liberation of the Frontline Socialist Party, has accused the present government of betraying the political aspirations of JVP members who led the 1971 uprising against imperialism.

She made these remarks while addressing the 55th April Heroes’ Commemoration event organised by the Frontline Socialist Party under the theme “Down with Imperialism, Victory to Socialism.” The event was held at the Colombo New Town Hall on April 5, with party leaders, civil organisation representatives, and a large crowd in attendance.

She stated that history shows oppressed people have always resisted oppression whenever they were crushed. The comrades who sacrificed their lives in the 1971 uprising, she said, fought against an exploitative economic system, which is why the struggle is recognised as a great uprising.

She said that today imperialist forces are using brutal strategies to plunder land, labour, and markets. According to her, socialism is the only solution, echoing the historic slogan “Socialism or Death.”

She further claimed that the present government is acting without backbone and trembling in fear of the United States. She expressed deep concern that a government made up of JVP members who once fought imperialism has now completely betrayed those revolutionary aspirations.

She alleged that on April 5 last year, the government signed several secret agreements with India containing proposals that undermine national security, energy sovereignty, and free healthcare rights. She also accused the government of advancing the agenda of the United States.

She stated that people of conscience cannot remain silent and that they will not hesitate to follow the path taken by the heroes of 1971.