Internal Rift in Sri Lanka’s Ruling Party as Professionals Clash with JVP Leadership
A growing rift between the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leadership and high-profile professionals recruited to key government positions has sparked discontent within the ruling party. Sources familiar with the matter reveal that at least six experts have already resigned in frustration.
Three prominent figures, a US-based professor, a former telecom CEO, and a former food industry CEO, reportedly struggle to align their expertise with the JVP’s political directives. Appointed to drive reforms in public institutions, the professionals have faced resistance from both bureaucratic red tape and the party’s rigid hierarchy.
“There’s a clear disconnect between their professional approach and the JVP’s traditional decision-making style,” an insider said. “They were brought in for their expertise but are being micromanaged, making progress nearly impossible.”
At least six professionals have quietly stepped down from their government roles in recent months, all maintaining public silence despite their abrupt departures. The three currently serving are said to deeply regret leaving their private-sector careers, with sources describing them as “disheartened” by the constraints of working under political oversight.
“They entered public service with idealism but are now trapped between bureaucracy and party politics,” a source close to one of the professionals said.
The JVP, which rose to power on promises of clean governance and technocratic efficiency, now faces a critical test: Can it integrate outside experts without stifling them? Party hardliners are said to distrust private-sector figures, while reformists argue that sidelining professionals risks policy failures.
With resignations mounting and morale dropping, the JVP must decide whether to adapt its approach or risk losing more talent. Observers warn that without resolving the tension, the government’s ability to deliver on its promises could weaken, just as Sri Lanka seeks stability after years of crisis.
The professionals remain silent for now, but their frustration hints at deeper structural challenges within the administration.
