The Policy Dialogue Forum of the Samagi Buddhi Mandapaya, the Intellectual Forum of Samagi Jana Balawegaya, was held yesterday (7th April) at the BMICH. The event was chaired by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, who delivered an extensive speech on a range of topics.
Premadasa delved into the history of Sri Lanka’s caste-based elitist politics, tracing its roots back to S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike and highlighting its continued prevalence today. He identified this as the root cause of the country’s political decay.
The Opposition Leader urged Sri Lankans to strive for the realization of the Sri Lankan dream. He illustrated how crises can serve as catalysts for change, turning challenges into opportunities.
Premadasa outlined the Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s plans for modernizing free education and improving healthcare in the welfare state. He discussed a national program to alleviate poverty, reforms to reduce brain drain, and constitutional amendments to eliminate corruption. He also highlighted the potential of digitization to improve efficiency.
In a notable statement, Premadasa clarified that neither his nor his party’s policies are neoliberal, but rather social democratic. He expressed belief in generating wealth through capitalism, while also recognizing the beneficial aspects of socialism. This balanced approach underscores the Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s stance of social democracy, steering clear of extreme right-wing or left-wing ideologies.
