Numerous ex-MPs opt to retire amidst shifting of political landscape
October 07, Colombo (LNW): A significant number of Members of Parliament (MPs) from Sri Lanka’s now-dissolved ninth Parliament have chosen to step away from politics, citing reasons ranging from age, health concerns, and the shifting political environment.
This decision, affecting veteran political figures, comes in the wake of a drastically altered political landscape following the recent Presidential election.
For the first time in Sri Lanka’s post-independence history, the National People’s Power (NPP), a party outside the traditional political establishment, secured the presidency.
This result signals a potential shift in parliamentary power as the country approaches its General Election on 14 November.
The rise of the NPP has unsettled long-standing political dynamics, leading several MPs to reconsider their futures in politics.
The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), which previously held a parliamentary majority, has refused to offer nominations to MPs who distanced themselves from the party ahead of the Presidential election.
As a result, many of these MPs are now seeking alternative political alliances as the election approaches.
In addition, some prominent figures from the SLPP, including former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, his brother Chamal Rajapaksa, Gamini Lokuge, and Ali Sabry, have decided not to contest this time.
Chamal Rajapaksa has confirmed his retirement, with his son, Shasheendra Rajapaksa, standing as a candidate for the SLPP from the Moneragala District.
Meanwhile, Ali Sabry explained that he had always intended to serve only one term and would now return to his legal practice.
Other long-serving MPs, such as Vasudeva Nanayakkara, have opted out due to health reasons, whilst Bandula Gunawardane also announced his decision to step back.
Former Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe remains uncertain about whether to contest in the upcoming election.
The trend extends beyond the SLPP, with Lakshman Kiriella, a representative of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), likely to pass the political baton to his daughter, Chamindrani Kiriella, who intends to contest in the Kandy District.
Veteran politicians such as Prof. Tissa Vitharana and A.H.M. Fowzie have also decided to withdraw from the parliamentary race, marking the end of an era for many familiar faces in Sri Lankan politics.
