BY M D P DISSANAYAKE

The current trends in Sri Lanka politics are expected  to change the status of established political parties relegated to distinct defeat whilst some of the minor parties emerging to be a fighting force.

The oldest political party of Sri Lanka, UNP will lose its status as a major party.  Newly formed SJB  will emerge as the second largest political force in Sri Lanka, well short of gaining power in the House, but able to secure the role of the Opposition Leader , a position previously held by the UNP.

The SLFP, which was a main political force in 1956 under Mr Bandaranaike  has virtually been destroyed by Chandrika Kumkaratunga  and Maithreepala Sirisena. It will enter the political wilderness.

The Jathika Nidahas Perramuna, pioneered by Minister Wimal Weeerawansa, is gaining momentum at a faster speed.  As the new Minister of Industries,  Wimal Weerawansa  has become a very close associate of President  and the Prime Minister.  In his current role, he has made an identifiable contribution by resurrecting defunct national  ventures, such as Paper, Ceramics, Tiles, Batik, Handloom etc in a short period. He continues to contribute to the national development agenda by embarking on new concepts, displaying enormous organising skills and the ability to work with mixture of Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims,  As a result of his long term commitment as a nationalist leader,  his political party is likely to emerge ahead of SLFP, JVP and MEP  at this election.

The SLFP,JVP  vote bank  depleted, its leaders will become dead  heroes.

Once again Basil Rajapakse will emerge victorious, as a living testimony for his ability, paving way for future national leadership.