Underrated power of Local Government elections

IN the fast-evolving political landscape of Sri Lanka, much is often made of presidential and parliamentary elections. But beneath the surface lies a quieter, yet arguably more consequential process that often gets overlooked: Local Government (LG) elections. These elections, representing 4,919 wards across 340 local government bodies with a total of 5,092 seats, are the bedrock of any functioning political ecosystem. They are not just atest of popularity—they are the foundation of a political party's grassroots strength, public outreach, and future electoral success.

- By Dilum Alagiyawanna

Unlike national elections, where voters often decide based on party ideologies or national figures, LG election candidates are deeply embedded in the community. They are neighbours, religious leaders, childhood friends, relatives, and local influencers. Their appeal is built not just on political slogans but on relationships, reputation, and social trust. It is this personal connection that makes LG elections so uniquely powerful.

The SLPP playbook: How a local win became a national wave

A compelling example of the strategic value of LG elections is the meteoric rise of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP). In 2015, Mahinda Rajapaksa faced a devastating defeat at the presidential level, followed by a lack-lustre showing in the parliamentary elections. Many political analysts prematurely wrote off his influence.

Yet, in the 2018 LG elections, the newly formed SLPP secured 3,255 seats—40.47% of the total vote share—translating into 3,436 councillors and control of 231 out of 340 local councils. This wasn't just a numerical win; it marked the revival of a political movement. Through strategic investment in grassroots structures and by endorsing candidates embedded within their communities, the SLPP successfully rebuilt its political machinery from the ground up.

In contrast, the United National Party (UNP) managed to win only 2,433 seats—29.42% of the vote share—controlling just 34 local councils.