Government’s “Blue Bus” Targets Only One Side; Chandima Weerakkody

02-Sep-2025

.

Former Member of Parliament Chandima Weerakkody has accused the government of running its administration under the image of the blue bus, but targeting only one section of society.

Speaking at a press conference in Galle on August 31, he urged that the government must not interfere with the independence of the police or judiciary while pursuing its measures.

He stressed that underworld gangs must indeed be controlled, and reminded that even during his tenure in Parliament, his party raised its voice against such groups in consultative committees, which led to the arrests of notorious figures like Makandure Madush. However, unlike today, such events did not receive extensive media publicity.

Weerakkody criticised the glorification of underworld figures as “heroes,” warning that it misguides society. He added that while the National Police Commission is constitutionally independent, the Inspector General of Police appearing alongside ministers in media campaigns undermines that independence.

Drawing comparisons to the Rajapaksa era, he expressed concern that the current situation may once again allow some underworld groups to operate freely. “Law enforcement must be pursued rigorously, but it should never be used as a political tool,” he said.

“The government is projecting the blue bus as its symbol of authority, but it is being driven against one side only. These measures must be carried out without compromising the independence of the police and the judiciary. If the government claims the opposition has links with underworld gangs, it must reveal who they are. Unsubstantiated allegations cannot be accepted,” Weerakkody concluded.