Democracy Means the Needs of the People, Not the Will of Rulers – Tilvin Silva
BERUWALA: General Secretary of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), Tilvin Silva, stated that democracy is not defined by the desires of rulers, but by the true needs of the general public, emphasizing that the current administration remains dedicated to delivering justice, truth, and genuine relief to the people.
Speaking at a massive public rally held in Beruwala under the theme “Two Years of Government – Good for the Country”, the JVP General Secretary addressed political developments, constitutional reforms, and national unity.
Key points highlighted by Tilvin Silva include:
Defining True Democracy: Having historically suffered the most from the suppression of democratic rights, the movement fully understands the value of democracy. True democracy means transparency, equal justice, and public relief rather than special privileges for rulers.
National Mandate and Public Trust: Rejecting opposition claims that the government’s mandate has eroded, he pointed to massive public turnouts across meetings in the district as proof of sustained public trust. Unlike previous regimes that relied on opportunistic deals to form governments, the National People’s Power (NPP) secured victory across 21 electoral districts, uniting voters from the North, East, Hill Country, and South under one mandate.
Constitutional Reforms and Judicial Integrity: Addressing criticism over the 22nd Constitutional Amendment, he clarified that it aims to streamline delayed judicial processes and ensure speedy justice for citizens. He contrasted this with past administrations that passed the 18th and 20th Amendments to expand presidential powers and improperly removed judges.
Rule of Law and Ending Impunity: The era where powerful figures evaded accountability has ended. The law is now enforced equally regardless of status, whether involving former presidents, ministers, or political elites, fulfilling the public mandate to root out corruption.
Navigating Global and Natural Challenges: Despite external economic shocks—such as global conflicts and natural disasters like the Ditwa disaster—the administration managed fuel and gas prices effectively without passing severe burdens onto the public.
Empowerment and National Unity: Through grassroots initiatives like “Clean Sri Lanka” and “Prajashakthi,” decision-making power is being returned to local communities. The government remains committed to building a united nation free from racism and religious division where all citizens can live without fear.
Concluding his address, Tilvin Silva called on citizens to remain united, safeguard the achievements of the past two years, and actively participate in the ongoing transformation toward a prosperous country.
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