The main Opposition party, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. Following a series of electoral defeats, this week the party’s leadership convened for its first management meeting for 2025 to make crucial decisions that could shape its political trajectory. Central to the SJB’s restructuring efforts is a 12-point proposal introduced by its Chairperson, Imthiaz Bakeer Markar.
In an interview with the Sunday Observer this week, Bakeer Markar reflected on the challenges faced by the SJB and shared his vision for revitalising the party and charting a path towards future success.
Excerpts of the Interview
Q: In December, you presented 12 proposals to the party leadership for reorganising the party. Was the leadership’s response to these proposals at this week’s meeting positive?
A: We engage in politics to serve the country by promoting the policies we believe in and to represent the aspirations of the people. However, in the past two elections, we faced setbacks because the people did not accept us. It is imperative that we immediately reflect on what went wrong and identify our shortcomings.
After the Presidential election defeat, I proposed forming a committee composed of persons who were not involved in election propaganda to provide an objective analysis of our failures. But this was not acted upon.
In December, I submitted the 12-point proposal to the party leadership, aiming to address the party’s weaknesses and ensure its future success. While this is not a comprehensive proposal, it serves as a foundational draft to which additional ideas can be incorporated. However, when I received no response, I followed up with a reminder 17 days later.
The party management meeting held on January 8 was the first since my appointment as Chairperson, and my proposal was included in the agenda. During the meeting, I outlined the political context and reasons behind the proposal. The SJB leadership accepted it, and other members expressed their support. This led to the formation of a committee comprising the General Secretary, the Chairperson, and former General Secretaries Tissa Attanayake and Kabir Hashim to implement these proposals.
Q: In the proposals you request the SJB leadership to not give prominence to ‘parachutists’ in fostering new leadership. Was giving importance to such figures a reason for the party’s recent setbacks?
A: A political party operates based on certain ethics, a Constitution, and traditions. When parties deviate from these principles, they become vulnerable and weak. This is precisely why our camp has faced setbacks over the past two decades. The incidents of the past continue to provide valuable lessons for us. My proposal seeks to strengthen the party’s internal democracy.
I entered politics as a student, progressing to leadership roles in the youth movement before eventually becoming the organiser of the Beruwala electorate. This journey was made possible because of the internal democracy that existed within the camp, where I was appointed through a voting process. I strongly believe that a similar path should be available to the young leaders of our party, enabling them to rise through the ranks.
However, weaknesses in our processes have prevented natural leaders from emerging, which has contributed to the party’s decline. Instead, these flaws pave the way for “yes men,” persons with influence, or those with financial resources to secure key positions. I firmly believe that our setbacks have been the result of straying from our ethics, constitution, and traditions.
Q: We witnessed the exit of several prominent SJB figures recently due to disillusionment including young politicians such as Rehan Jayawickreme. Has the party put in motion a plan to prevent more departures?
A: It is understandable that some may leave the party or feel disillusioned following an electoral defeat. However, I am deeply saddened by the departure of young leaders like Rehan. He was a valuable asset to the party, and his exit leaves a significant void. That said, we have not witnessed a mass exodus of members.
But the majority of the party strongly believes in the importance of identifying and addressing the issues that have led to such exits. As a party, we are now taking steps to implement the necessary changes to move forward.
Q: There are reports of a marriage being brokered between the SJB and UNP. Is there any truth to this?
A: We were once united as one camp, but the party split occurred as it strayed from its core principles. I believe it would be beneficial for both factions to reach a policy agreement. Establishing some form of understanding among all opposition parties is crucial. A strong opposition is essential for the sake of democracy as without it, the Government could veer towards a dictatorial path.
All Opposition camps must come to an understanding, not for the sake of positions or election victories, but to establish a policy agreement that serves as a foundation for constructive criticism and ensures the opposition acts responsibly for the betterment of the country. At the meeting on January 8, the party leadership approved the initiation of discussions, tasking the General Secretary with overseeing the process.
Q: What is your take on the performance of the current Government?
A: It has only been a few months since the Government was elected, and this is not the appropriate time to pass judgments. However, the Government came into power with a two-thirds majority, creating significant hope among the people.
“Yet, there appear to be contradictions between what was promised during the election and what is currently being implemented. As Dullas Alahapperuma once remarked about Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga’s governance, there is a perception of “signalling left while turning right.”
For instance, before coming into power, the Government staged protests and spoke passionately about human rights around the world, but such commitments seem to have faded now.
However, this observation is not made with malice. The Opposition must not only remain strong but also provide constructive criticism. The SJB’s policies remain steadfast. We are committed to relieving the people from their suffering, reviving the country, and setting it on the right path. However, we do not take the stance that everything the Government does is wrong. In decisions that help alleviate the people’s hardships and revive the nation, we will always extend our support.
Q: The SJB expressed similar sentiments of support previously. But it seems the SJB is now opposing nearly all actions taken by the Government. Is this the case?
A: No, we do not oppose the Government on all matters. For instance, neither our party nor our leader, Sajith Premadasa, chose to boycott the President’s swearing-in ceremony, unlike some other candidates. Therefore, it would be incorrect to make such an assumption. Our approach is one of constructive criticism.
We are willing to support any actions that genuinely contribute to the betterment of the country. We have our own policies and a clear vision for what will set the nation on the path to progress. In efforts that align with this trajectory, we will extend our support to the Government. But if the path they are taking is incorrect then we will have to point out these faults. We urge everyone not to misinterpret constructive criticism being made.
Q: Do you believe the SJB can recover from its recent setbacks through its restructuring efforts?
A: We believe that despite having a clear vision and a strong team, our defeat was due to the public’s desire for a break from traditional politics. We were also perceived as part of the traditional political establishment. However, we are confident that by identifying and addressing our weaknesses, we can steer the party back onto a path of success.
Q: In recent times, there has been a perception that certain senior politicians within the SJB are being sidelined. Do you believe under such circumstances you have a future in the party’s political landscape?
A: I engage in politics with a clear purpose and understanding. I adhere to policies and principles that I firmly believe can lead my country to success.
This commitment is why, even when I was in the UNP and removed from the Deputy Chairperson post and the executive committee, I chose to remain with the party. I stayed to ensure that these policies would prevail and to guide the party towards democratic and progressive ideals. Even today, I remain steadfast in my commitment to the principles I believe in. As long as I am able to work towards implementing these values, I will continue to dedicate myself to politics.
