The joint opposition “Maha Jana Handa” public rally went ahead yesterday at the Ananda Samarakoon Open Air Theatre in Nugegoda despite heavy rain, with supporters converging in large numbers, causing significant congestion in the town, despite police having cordoned off the surroundings in advance to vehicular movement and subject to other restrictions.
Several Opposition parties organised the event in protest against the government failure to fulfill many of its grandiose promises, although the SJB, Sarvajana Balaya, and the NFF announced they would not participate. Opposition representatives inspected the venue earlier in the day to oversee preparations.
A special traffic and security plan was implemented by police to ensure the safety of Members of Parliament, party leaders, supporters, and the public. Ahead of the rally, bales of grass were reportedly placed on utility poles at key junctions in the area, sparking concern among residents.
The police also restricted the use of loudspeakers outside the venue to prevent disruption of ongoing GCE Advanced Level examinations held at nearby examination centres. Organizers questioned the move, citing the recent NPP rally in Tangalle, where loudspeakers had been allowed despite the A/L examination in progress.
The rally commenced around 2.00 pm under close police supervision, with all activities confined to the premises in compliance with examination regulations.