The National People’s Power (NPP) gained control of the Galle Municipal Council today (20th), as its candidate was elected Mayor during a tense inaugural session.
The meeting, chaired by the Provincial Commissioner of Local Government, was convened to elect both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor. However, disputes arose over the method of voting, sparking unrest.
A preliminary vote determined that the mayoral election would proceed by secret ballot, with 19 councillors in favour and 17 supporting an open vote. This decision led to protests and a walkout by several Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) members.
Police were summoned to manage the tension, and the session was briefly adjourned for 30 minutes.
Upon resumption, a secret ballot was held, and the NPP candidate was elected Mayor with 19 votes.
In a surprising turn, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) secured the Deputy Mayor position—reportedly with support from the NPP.
