Sinhala sentiment on NPP's electoral sweep of Sri Lanka in 2024 general election

On the lines of what I did yesterday with Tamil sentiment on YouTube, wanted to quickly capture sentiments in Sinhala on the unprecedented, landslide electoral victory for the NPP in Sri Lanka's general election.

As Al Jazeera noted,

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s leftist coalition has achieved a landslide victory in snap parliamentary elections, delivering the self-described Marxist leader a powerful mandate to fight poverty and corruption in the crisis-stricken nation. The Election Commission of Sri Lanka said on Friday that Dissanayake’s National People’s Power (NPP) coalition secured a two-thirds majority in parliament, winning 159 of 225 seats, a huge lead on opposition alliance Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), which won 40 seats. Dissanayake, a 55-year-old veteran politician, was elected president on September 21 with 42 percent of the vote, in a rejection of traditional political parties that have governed the island nation since independence from British rule in 1948. His party’s victory on Friday vindicated his decision to immediately call elections and secure parliamentary backing for his plans to combat corruption and recover stolen assets, two years after a financial crash led to months-long shortages of food, fuel and essential medicines. Reporting from Colombo, Al Jazeera’s Minelle Fernandez said voters had said “enough is enough”, voting overwhelmingly “to take a chance on the NPP”. The vote, she said, marked a rejection of “the same old faces, the same old parties [that] have been hoodwinking us for too long now”.

Facebook video of press conference

I studied 3,400 comments against a video posted to the President's official Facebook account featuring a press conference held after the general election, and titled 'Press Conference | ?????? ???? ?????? ?? ???? ???? ???????? | 2024.11.15'. At the time of writing, the video had been viewed 264,000 times, and also generated 13,000 reactions.

Key themes, issues, and hopes

• Unity and national integration: Many emphasise unity across ethnic lines, with comments like "Let's build the country together regardless of whether we are Sinhalese, Tamil, or Muslim - we are all Sri Lankans", and "We are all children of one mother".
• Hope and optimism: As with every study I undertook after the presidential election, overwhelming optimism in the comments, with many saying "This is not just a victory, this is a revolution" and "Finally our dreams have come true." People express hope for a "beautiful country" and "prosperous future." Many note this is a "historic moment" and "dawn of a new era." As noted, this mirrors sentiments studied in relation to the President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) after the presidential election: Rapid study of ~1,000 tweets on Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President elect Anura Kumara Dissanayake's first Facebook post: A snapshot of sentiments, and From GR to AKD: A comparative analysis of online sentiment on inauguration day.
• Anti-Corruption sentiment: Many focus on eliminating corruption, with statements like "Now we must catch all the thieves and recover the stolen money" and "The era of corruption is over." There's very strong, repeated support for prosecuting corrupt officials, and recovering state assets.
• Economic aspirations: Numerous comments focus on economic development, noting for example "We don't want handouts - just give us a country where we can live and work with dignity" and "Build an economy where our children can prosper." Many mention Singapore as a model to aspire to.
• Social Media's role: Multiple comments acknowledge the role of social media in the victory, with comments stating "The social media campaign was unstoppable" and "We fought this battle online and won."
• Trust and responsibility: Many emphasise the trust placed in the new political leadership (which extends AKD), saying things like "The people have given you their trust, now you must deliver" and "We've done our part by voting, now you must do your part by governing well."
• Reform expectations: Comments indicate expectations for systemic reform, with many mentioning the need for constitutional changes, judicial reforms, and public sector improvements. Several mention the need to abolish the executive presidency, and reform the electoral system.
• Diaspora perspectives: There are numerous comments from Sri Lankans abroad, saying things like "We are watching from Dubai/Australia/UK with hope" and "Make this a country we can return to."
• Youth focus: Many stress building a better future for youth, with statements like "Build a country where our children don't have to go abroad to prosper" and "Create opportunities for the younger generation." It wasn't possible for me to determine the age of accounts commenting on this Facebook video, but it is very likely that this strong stress on better futures for youth are from accounts who are from the same demographic.
• Personal investment, and pride: Numerous comments show deep personal investment in the electoral outcome, with comments noting "I've waited years for this day" and "This is more than a victory, this is our future."
• Language: There's appreciation for the trilingual approach of the new political leadership (AKD + NPP), with comments praising speeches being given in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, seeing this as symbolic of national unity.

Compared to the sentiments on AKD soon after his unprecedented win in September in around 3,500 comments studied, core themes of hope, transformation, and anti-corruption remain strikingly similar across both periods. However, the Facebook comments from the more recent parliamentary election show a heightened sense of mandate and legitimacy, likely due to the reported 2/3rds majority victory. While the September presidential comments focused more on individual hope in AKD as a leader, the recent comments emphasise collective victory and systemic change potential through the NPP as a movement.

• There's an interesting evolution in how the concept of unity is discussed. While both sets of comments emphasise national unity, the recent parliamentary election comments show more concrete appreciation of this unity in action, with specific references to victories across different regions and communities. The trilingual approach receives more prominent mention in the recent comments, suggesting an appreciation of actual implementation rather than just hoped-for change.
• The economic expectations remain consistent, with both sets of comments stressing the desire for development and prosperity. However, the recent comments show a more sophisticated understanding of the challenges ahead, with more specific mentions of systemic reforms and constitutional changes needed. This suggests a rapid maturing of public discourse around the NPP's agenda (or perhaps more accurately, discourse on Facebook in Sinhala).
• The sense of personal connection to AKD noted in the September comments continues in the recent feedback, but there's a noticeable expansion to include other NPP leaders, particularly Tilvin Silva. This suggests a broadening of public trust from individual leadership to party-wide competence.
• While both sets of comments express high expectations, the recent ones show more specific and detailed demands, particularly regarding corruption investigations and asset recovery. This might indicate a shift from general hope to more concrete expectations as the NPP moves from opposition to governance - and hints at how quickly public sentiment can sour if there's the perception of non-delivery.
• Relatedly, and importantly, both sets of comments maintain a balance between hope and vigilance. While expressing strong support, commenters in both periods maintain a clear expectation of performance and accountability.
• The theme of breaking from traditional politics appears in both, but the recent comments express this more emphatically, with direct references to ending the "76-year rule" of traditional parties. There's a stronger sense of historic transformation in the recent comments, perhaps due to the scale of the parliamentary victory.
• Interestingly, while both sets of comments show strong support, the recent ones display more awareness of the responsibility that comes with substantial or significant political authority. There are more comments explicitly warning about the need to maintain integrity and meet public expectations.
• The "rich country, beautiful life" slogan resonates throughout both periods, but the recent comments show more emphasis on collective responsibility for achieving this goal. There are more mentions of citizens being ready to support and work alongside the government for national development.
• One notable difference is the treatment of social media's role. The recent comments show greater acknowledgment of social media's contribution to the victory, suggesting an increased awareness of the movement's grassroots nature, and modern political communications, and campaigning methods. This may also be because of individuals who were animated to amplify partisan messaging after September.
• The diaspora perspective appears more prominently in the recent comments, with more expatriate Sri Lankans expressing hope for a country they can return to.
• The consistency between these two sets of comments, despite the different electoral contexts, suggests that the NPP has maintained a stable base of support with clear expectations and hopes for Sri Lanka's future. The evolution in the specificity and sophistication of the comments indicates growing public engagement with and understanding of the party's agenda and the challenges it faces.

NPP vs l'ancien régime

The comments reveal a stark contrast in how the NPP is perceived compared to other political parties, particularly traditional parties like the SLFP and UNP, and their various offshoots.

• The NPP is consistently presented as a clean break from what commenters describe as "76 years of deceptive politics" by traditional parties. There's a strong narrative in the comments that while previous parties relied on ethnic divisions, family dynasties, and patronage networks, the NPP represents a new kind of politics based on competence and national unity. This is particularly evident in comments celebrating the NPP's unprecedented achievement in winning support across all regions, including areas traditionally dominated by ethnic-based parties.
• The traditional parties (and related political culture) are frequently referred to in terms of corruption and failure, with many comments specifically mentioning "throwing out the thieves" and "ending the era of family rule." There's particular criticism of what commenters see as the exploitation of ethnic divisions by traditional parties, with several comments noting how these parties historically played different communities against each other for political gain. In contrast, the NPP is praised for its trilingual approach and its ability to unite voters across ethnic lines.
• The comments suggest a complete loss of faith in the established political order. Traditional parties are described as having "sold out the country," "destroyed the economy," and "divided the people." The NPP, by contrast, is portrayed as a force for unification and reconstruction. This is reflected in numerous comments expressing hope that the NPP will build a "country without racism" and "unite all Sri Lankans."
• There's also a marked difference in how leadership is perceived. While traditional party leaders are described as being distant from the people and focused on personal wealth accumulation, and nepotism, NPP leaders, particularly (the President) AKD and Tilvin Silva are praised for their perceived humility, education, and commitment to public service. Comments frequently mention the "simple lifestyle" and "intellectual capacity" of NPP leaders, contrasting this with the perceived corruption and ostentation of traditional political leaders.
• Perhaps most significantly, the comments suggest that while traditional parties are seen as representing various factions and interest groups, the NPP is perceived as representing the entire nation. This is reflected in comments celebrating the party's ability to win support from both urban and rural areas, across all ethnic communities, and among both educated professionals and working-class voters.
• The election result itself is presented in the comments as a wholesale rejection of traditional politics. Many commenters note that this isn't just a normal change of government but a fundamental transformation of Sri Lankan politics. The NPP's reported achievement of a two-thirds majority is seen as a mandate not just for governance but for systemic change, with many comments expressing hope that this will allow for fundamental constitutional and structural reforms that previous governments were unwilling or unable to implement.
• However, this overwhelming support comes with equally high expectations. While traditional parties were perhaps expected to engage in corruption and nepotism, commenters make it clear that such behaviour will not be tolerated from the NPP. There are numerous comments warning that the party must deliver on its promises and maintain its integrity, suggesting that supporters will hold the NPP to much higher standards than previous governments.

Expectations from NPP, and clarification of mandate

Explicit expectations are clearly stated throughout the comments, with economic reform being paramount. Commenters directly call for the NPP to reduce vehicle prices, control the cost of living, create employment opportunities, and build a self-sufficient economy. There are explicit demands to recover stolen state assets, prosecute corrupt officials, and establish a robust anti-corruption framework. Many specifically request the abolition of parliamentary privileges and a reduction in political perks, demonstrating a desire for more modest and accountable governance.

The implicit expectations are more nuanced, but equally significant. There's an underlying assumption that the NPP will maintain its ideological purity and resist the corrupting influences that have affected previous governments. This is evident in comments that don't directly state this expectation but hint at it through phrases like "don't be like the others" and references to maintaining trust. There's an implicit understanding that the NPP's mandate is not just about governance but about fundamental system change.

A significant expectation, both explicit and implicit, revolves around national unity. While some comments directly call for policies to unite communities, there's also an implicit expectation that the NPP will maintain its trilingual approach and continue to bridge ethnic divides. The comments suggest an unstated assumption that the party will govern for all Sri Lankans, not just its base supporters.

Administrative reform emerges as another key expectation. While some commenters explicitly call for public sector reforms, there's an implicit assumption that the NPP will bring technocratic competence and professional management to government operations. This is reflected in comments that don't directly demand such changes but express confidence in the party's intellectual capacity and planning abilities.

Youth-focused expectations are particularly notable. While some comments explicitly call for opportunities to prevent youth migration, there's an implicit expectation that the NPP will create a modern, forward-looking Sri Lanka that can compete globally. This includes unstated assumptions about technological advancement, educational reform, and economic modernisation.

The comments also reveal expectations about leadership style (in relation to old political culture). While some explicitly praise the perceived humility of NPP leaders, there's an implicit expectation that this modesty and accessibility will continue. Comments suggest an unstated assumption that NPP leaders will remain connected to ordinary citizens and maintain their current leadership style even after assuming power. This mirrors sentiments on AKD as he was sworn into office: From GR to AKD: A comparative analysis of online sentiment on inauguration day.

There's a strong expectation, both stated and unstated, regarding transparency and accountability. While some comments directly demand regular updates and open communication, there's also an implicit assumption that the NPP will maintain its current level of public engagement and continue to explain its policies and decisions to the public.

Perhaps most significantly, there's an implicit expectation of transformative change that goes beyond specific policies. The comments suggest that supporters expect not just better governance, but a fundamental reimagining of Sri Lankan society and politics. This is reflected in references to building a "new Sri Lanka" and creating a "country that's never existed before." However, there's also an implicit understanding of the challenges ahead. While many comments express high expectations, there's an underlying acknowledgment that change will take time and require patience. This is reflected in comments that, while expressing hope for immediate improvements, also suggest a willingness to support long-term transformation.

Abolishing Executive Presidency, and constitutional reform?

There are surprisingly few direct references to constitutional reform or abolishing the executive presidency, which is notable given these were key campaign promises of AKD, and the NPP. The comments studied against this video instead focus more on immediate practical concerns like economic development, anti-corruption measures, and social unity. When constitutional matters are mentioned, they're typically framed within the context of the "two-thirds majority" (?????? ???? ???) that the party has received, with commenters noting this gives them the power to make significant constitutional changes.

However, rather than specifically calling for the abolition of the executive presidency, most comments express a broader desire for systemic change, using phrases like "kramaya wenasa karanna" (????? ????? ?????) meaning "change the system." Some comments reference JR Jayawardene's constitution (??.???. ?? ?????????), suggesting it needs to be replaced with one more suitable for the country, but these references are relatively sparse.

The lack of specific discussion about constitutional reform could suggest either that those commenting here, and soon after the general election results are more focused on immediate economic concerns, or that they implicitly trust the party's stated commitment to constitutional reform, and don't feel the need to emphasise it in their congratulatory messages.

Another reading could be that the comments may also reflect the public's preference for seeing tangible changes in governance before focusing on structural constitutional reforms.

Most used words, terms, and phrases

• The most prominent phrase is "Jayawewa" (??????) meaning "Victory to" or "May [you] be victorious," which appears hundreds of times in various combinations like "Malimawata Jayawewa" (Victory to Malimawa - referring to the compass symbol/party). This reflects the celebratory nature of the comments following the electoral victory.
• "Malimawa" (???????), meaning "compass," appears frequently as it's the symbol of the National People's Power (NPP) party. It's used both literally to refer to the party symbol and metaphorically to represent the party's role in guiding the country in a new direction. Unsurprisingly, the compass emoji (??) is often used alongside this term (also see below).
• The phrase "Pohosath ratak, lassana jeewithayak" (??????? ???? ????? ????????) meaning "A prosperous country, a beautiful life" appears repeatedly, reflecting the party's campaign slogan and the people's aspirations for the country's future. This is often accompanied by comments about building and developing the nation.
• "Eka mawakage daru kela bewina" (?? ?????? ??? ??? ??????) meaning "Because we are children of one mother" is another recurring phrase, emphasising national unity and transcending ethnic and religious divisions. This is particularly significant given Sri Lanka's history of ethnic tensions.
• "AKD" (referring to Anura Kumara Dissanayake) and "Tilwin" (referring to Tilvin Silva) are frequently mentioned leaders, with comments often expressing personal admiration and trust in their leadership. Many comments refer to them as "Sahodaraya" (???????) meaning "brother," indicating a sense of closeness and solidarity with the leadership.
• The term "NPP" (National People's Power) appears frequently alongside "JVP" (Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna), showing the connection between the new political movement and its historical roots. Comments often express how the party has evolved from its controversial past to become a mainstream political force.
• The phrase "Rate minissu" (??? ????????) meaning "the country's people" appears frequently in contexts discussing how the general public has placed their trust in the new leadership. This is often coupled with expressions of hope that this trust will not be betrayed.
• "Wada karanna" (??? ?????) meaning "do the work" or "get to work" appears frequently, indicating people's expectations for immediate action and reform from the new leadership. This is often accompanied by comments about ending corruption and bringing previous corrupt politicians to justice.
• The concept of "Punaraudaya" (???????) meaning "renaissance" or "revival" appears repeatedly, suggesting people's hope for a complete transformation of the country's political and social landscape. This is often mentioned in the context of building a new political culture.
• References to "2/3 balayak" (?????? ?????) meaning "two-thirds majority" appear frequently, highlighting the historic nature of the victory and the mandate given to the NPP (and by extension, AKD). This is often mentioned alongside expectations for constitutional reforms, with the caveat stressed above.
• The phrase "Rata hadanna" (?? ?????) meaning "to build the country" is extremely common, reflecting the public's primary expectation from the new leadership. This is often accompanied by specific mentions of economic development, education reform, and anti-corruption measures.
• Terms like "Nidahas" (??????) meaning "freedom" and "Samaya" (???) meaning "peace" appear frequently, indicating people's hopes for both political freedom and social harmony. These are often mentioned in the context of ethnic unity and religious harmony.
• The comments also frequently use the terms "Wishwasaya" (????????) meaning "trust" and "Balaporoththuwa" (????????????) meaning "hope," reflecting both the faith placed in the new leadership and the expectations that come with it. Many comments emphasise that this trust must not be betrayed.

Emojis used most frequently

Mirroring those used in relation to AKD in September, ten most used emojis were:

• ?? - 3,181 times
• ?? (which was the electoral symbol of AKD's party) - 248 times
• ?? - 113 times
• ?? - 89 times
• ?? - 87 times
• ???? - 82 times
• ?? - 54 times
• ?? - 48 times
• ? - 41 times
• ?? - 39 times

The heart (??) is overwhelmingly used to express love and support for the party and president (i.e. NPP, and AKD), while the use of the compass (??) is obvious. The thumbs up (??) and clapping hands (??) express support, approval, and celebration of the victory, while flexed biceps (??) communicate strength, resilience, and determination in the context of "building the country" - a common theme in the comments. The Sri Lankan flag (????) communicates patriotism, particularly in comments hoping for the country's future development, and presentations of the 'unity' trope. The folded hands (??) appear in messages of blessing and gratitude, while the heart-eyes face (??) expresses admiration for party, and president. The bouquet (??) is used in congratulatory messages, and the raised fist (?), like flexed biceps, symbolises solidarity and determination, often appearing alongside comments about national development.

Banner image courtesy The Hindu, by AFP.