SLPP National Organiser Namal Rajapaksa, held in Colombo Remand Prison, has issued a statement from custody to party supporters at an Anuradhapura rally, rejecting what he characterises as government political pressure while criticising the current administration's record.
Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser and MP Namal Rajapaksa, currently in remand custody at Colombo Remand Prison, has sent a message to supporters gathered at the party's "Jana Satana" rally in Anuradhapura on 12 September, declaring he will not capitulate to what he describes as political pressure from the government. In the statement, Rajapaksa thanked supporters for their solidarity and characterised the rally as a pivotal moment for the SLPP's political direction.
Rajapaksa drew on a quotation from former South African President Nelson Mandela—"Difficulties break some men but make others"—to frame his current circumstances, arguing that challenges have strengthened his political movement. He credited his father with instilling in him resilience in the face of adversity and stated that "determination cannot be imprisoned." The message emphasised that he would not surrender to government pressure or be intimidated, while urging supporters to maintain peaceful and lawful conduct.
The detained politician launched a comprehensive critique of the current administration, alleging it has failed to honour electoral promises and citing rising living costs and tax burdens as sources of public hardship affecting small and medium enterprises, farmers, fishermen and workers. Rajapaksa claimed that state investigative institutions have been politicised under the government, asserting that allegations involving government-connected individuals are not being investigated equitably. He also faulted the government's handling of constitutional reforms, delays in Provincial Council elections and what he termed insufficient job market opportunities for young people. These claims were made by Rajapaksa and have not been independently verified.