Provincial Council Elections Will Not Be Held Next Year; Dr. Harsha de Silva

10-Nov-2025

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“Based on the President’s position, it is now clear that the Provincial Council elections scheduled for 2026 will not be held. The government is attempting to convert its party’s ideology into state policy and establish a one-party system. When actions that undermine democracy rise, we will stand firmly against them,” said Dr. Harsha de Silva, Colombo District MP of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya.

Speaking during the Second Reading debate of the 2026 Appropriation Bill in Parliament on November 8, he further stated:

“The President says he is not an authoritarian leader under the Constitution, and he asks why we oppose the government. Yet, from the President’s own remarks, it becomes clear that the Provincial Council elections for 2026 will not take place.

The government is attempting to restructure the state administrative system based on its party ideology to create a one-party rule. We will extend unconditional cooperation to safeguard democracy. We will also fully support the President’s strong measures against corruption.

Politicians who defrauded public funds and drove the country towards bankruptcy must be dealt with under the Anti-Corruption Act enacted in 2024. This must not become mere political revenge.

No action has been taken so far regarding the sugar tax fraud. The National Audit Report clearly states that 1.8 million dollars earned within one month through the e-visa system were not credited to government revenue. No investigations have been launched.

Even after the committee appointed by the President submitted its report confirming the irregular release of 323 containers, no action has been taken. Under such circumstances, how can one believe that measures against corruption will be taken impartially?

The President also referred to the procurement of 1,775 cab vehicles. This purchase involves massive fraud; therefore, the government must cancel the decision. Anti-corruption actions are being taken selectively depending on political affiliation.”