A surprise assault on Syria, but can it last?

A surprise assault on Syria, but can it last?

The wave of enemy destabilization ploys jumped from Lebanon to Syria this week, with a swarm of foreign-backed extremists breaking into Aleppo. Israel warned that Syria was next, but can the militants do today what they couldn't achieve for almost a decade?

Haidar Mustafa NOV 30, 2024 The Cradle

In his speech announcing Israel’s agreement to a ceasefire with Lebanon, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a direct threat to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, warning him of “playing with fire.” Those words came mere hours before armed terrorist factions from Idlib launched a shock offensive on Syrian army positions in the de-escalation zone in the western countryside of Aleppo. The operation is being led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the rebranded incarnation of Al-Nusra Front - or Syria’s Al-Qaeda franchise - led by Abu Muhammad al-Julani, with the participation of other international terror organizations such as the Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP).

The army is preparing to deter aggression

On the morning of 27 November, armed extremist groups launched violent attacks on Syrian army positions in the vicinity of the 46th Regiment and toward the villages of Orem al-Kubra, Orem al-Sughra, Basratun, Anjara, and the surrounding areas, located a short distance from the M5 Aleppo-Hama-Damascus highway. 

In their first surprise attack, as part of an operation called “Deterrence of Aggression,” the militants were able to enter a number of villages that Syrian army forces had evacuated in preparation for containing the breach, which constitutes a flagrant violation of the 2019 de-escalation agreements between Turkey, Russia, and Iran.

The scope of the battles quickly expanded on the international road and into the city of Aleppo. A Turkish security source quoted by Qatari-funded Middle East Eye said that the goal of the military operation launched by HTS and its allies is the recovery of the positions gained by the Syrian forces with the support of Russia during the battles of 2017 - 2020.

The militants claim that the Syrian and Russian army’s “violations” of the de-escalation agreements - and their intensification of strikes on Idlib - prompted these military operations in order to regain their control of these areas. They say that the Syrian army’s retreat in Aleppo’s western countryside provided impetus for the militants to launch further attacks toward rural eastern Idlib.

Within three days, armed extremist groups were able to reach the heart of Aleppo and declare a curfew for 24 hours. As the confrontations intensified, Syrian and Russian warplanes launched a series of violent raids on HTS and Turkestani sites and supply lines in Darat Azza, Al-Atareb, Sarmin, and other areas. These airstrikes are still ongoing, with video footage revealing heavy losses in the ranks of the extremist factions and several media sources confirming fatalities of more than 200 members of HTS and other militant groups in the Aleppo and Idlib regions.

The expansion of air attacks by the Syrian and Russian forces led, on Thursday morning, to a lull in HTS’ field momentum as the group suffered both human and material losses. Sources on the frontline also reveal the arrival of huge military reinforcements to the main confrontation zone, which extends over an area of ​​​​more than 26 kilometers in western Aleppo – Syrian troops and supplies that are planning a counterattack to restore the status quo. Military expert Haitham Hassoun explains to The Cradle that the Syrian army has regrouped in the rear lines of defense at a depth of 7 to 8 kilometers in preparation for carrying out the counterattack.

How did the preparations go?

In reality, the HTS operation was by no means a spur-of-the-moment offensive but rather a result of years-long preparations spearheaded by US and Turkish intelligence to unify the ranks of various extremist factions in Syria’s north. This project took place under the direct supervision of the Turkish army, which aimed to converge the militant groups in Idlib and the Aleppo countryside and place decision-making in the hands of mainly two parties: the so-called Syrian National Army (SNA), which is loyal to Ankara, and Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, the Al Qaeda affiliate in Syria.  

In this mash-up of terror outfits are the Turkestan and Uyghur “jihadist” groups, used primarily as strike forces in specific military operations, largely fulfilling the interests of their US and Turkish funders. 

Military expert, Brigadier General Haitham Hassoun, confirms that preparations to launch this operation began “a long time ago,” and that the participating groups established a joint ops room about a month and a half ago. He believes that the militants benefited from “misdirection” and electronic warfare media operations carried out by Turkish intelligence to camouflage their intentions and movements and by Turkish occupation forces inside Syria during the days preceding the shock offensive. The militants further benefited from sophisticated intel that helped them exploit existing loopholes on the ground and were aware of vacuums in the Syrian army’s positions, which then led to this breach and confusion in the defense lines.

Who made the decision, and what is the goal?

Today’s scenes in Idlib and Aleppo remind Syrians of a period they thought they had put behind them after the 2016 liberation of Aleppo and the 2019 de-escalation understandings. But those hard-fought understandings had always remained fragile, given that Turkiye evaded its commitments to purge the M5 area of terrorist groups. The militancy in Syria’s north served Ankara’s interest in maintaining pressure on Damascus. It also explains this week’s armed operation – an action the Turks believe will force the Syrian government to enter negotiations under fire, especially if armed extremists re-enter Aleppo or sever the critical international route.  

On the other hand, one objective of the operation may be the US decision to maintain a state of conflict in the region and redirect pressure toward Russia and its regional allies ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

As many commentators have pointed out, the military operation was launched in the direct aftermath of Netanyahu’s explicit threats in his speech this week and is likely connected to Israel's regional war and Tel Aviv's determination to sever the Syrian route for members of the Resistance Axis. The offensive appears to have been coordinated with the NATO-member Turkiye, under the direction of Turkish occupation authorities and intelligence services, which have for years managed and supported the various extremist groups in northern Syria.

In a preliminary estimate, what is happening is a return to the situation before 2019, a re-invasion that effectively seeks to derail all the achievements of the Astana peace process. In turn, this deserves nothing less than an equally brash and unexpected response: a Syrian military counter-offensive that not only reclaims the positions held by Syrian army forces a few days ago but one that decisively pushes all the way to Darat Izza and beyond up to the Bab al-Hawa border crossing with Turkiye, cutting off communications routes between the militants in the Aleppo and Idlib regions, and restoring the entire governorates under Syrian government control. 

What began as a shock assault may have created an opportunity to end the state of limbo in the country’s north at the end of the Syrian war, provide Damascus and its allies a way to sidestep unproductive de-escalation understandings, and hand the Syrian state a legitimate, legal and moral justification to liberate all territories from terror organizations. 

Until or unless this happens, western Aleppo and eastern Idlib will remain active battlefields. However, according to informed sources, the militants are unlikely to remain in an advantageous position for long for several key reasons. 

First is the imminent arrival of large Syrian military reinforcements to the area, which will not allow Aleppo to fall into the hands of foreign-backed extremists. Second, these US and Turkish-backed militant groups are less likely to achieve their goals today than in the early years of the war because of seismic political and economic shifts in Europe, which fears the revival of the Syrian conflict and another flood of refugees to its borders. 

Third, Damascus has returned to the Arab fold by rejoining the Arab League and being welcomed by several Persian Gulf states. Those capitals are no longer interested in backing jihadists, resuscitating the war, or destabilizing Lebanon and Iraq, Syria’s direct and connected neighbors, at this moment. Nor are they interested in opening up the Syrian military arena to Iranian advisors or forces again.  

___________________

Mapping who controls what in Syria

 Syrian opposition fighters, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), are advancing into Aleppo and south towards Hama, just five days after launching a surprise offensive that may have sparked a new phase of the 13-year war in Syria.

Syria’s military announced a “temporary troop withdrawal” on Saturday from Aleppo, the country’s second largest city, saying it would regroup in preparation for the arrival of reinforcements for a counterattack.

President Bashar al-Assad’s forces had controlled Aleppo since 2016 with support from Iran, Russia and Hezbollah after a brutal air campaign by Russian warplanes helped al-Assad retake the city of about two million people.

President Bashar al-Assad’s forces had controlled Aleppo since 2016 with support from Iran, Russia and Hezbollah after a brutal air campaign by Russian warplanes helped al-Assad retake the city of about two million people. 

Four main groups are competing for control on the ground in Syria. They are:

1. Syrian government forces: The army, the government’s main military force, fights alongside the National Defence Forces, a pro-government paramilitary group.
2. Syrian Democratic Forces: This Kurdish-dominated, United States-backed group controls parts of eastern Syria.
3. HTS and other allied rebel groups: The HTS is the latest iteration of the al-Nusra Front, which had pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda until it severed those ties in 2016.
4. Turkish and Turkish-aligned Syrian rebel forces: The Syrian National Army is a Turkish-backed rebel force in northern Syria.

How the offensive unfolded

On Wednesday(27-11-2024), the day a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into effect, Syrian opposition forces, led by HTS, launched an offensive from their base in Idlib governorate in northwestern Syria.

The rebel group says the attacks are retaliation for recent Syrian government assaults on cities in Idlib, including Ariha and Sarmada, which resulted in civilian casualties, including the deaths of children, and aim to deter future attacks on the rebel stronghold.

The operation marked the first major attack against al-Assad’s forces in the region since the 2020 Idlib ceasefire, brokered by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

By Wednesday evening, the group had seized at least 19 towns and villages from pro-government forces, including military sites, as they pushed into western Aleppo governorate.

The Syrian regime responded by shelling rebel-held areas while the Russian air force carried out air strikes.

By Thursday, the rebels had captured more territory and expelled government forces from villages in eastern Idlib, then began pushing towards the M5 highway, a strategic road that leads south to the capital, Damascus, about 300km (186 miles) away.

By Friday, rebel forces had entered parts of Aleppo city after detonating two car bombs and engaging government forces on the city’s western edge, according to a Syrian war monitor and fighters. Syrian state television said Russia was providing Syria’s military with air support.

By Saturday, images and videos began circulating online showing rebel fighters taking photos next to the ancient Citadel of Aleppo as they advanced through the city.

After capturing Aleppo, the rebels advanced south, but there are conflicting reports about whether they have reached the central city of Hama.

The opposition announced an effort to expand safe areas and allow displaced civilians in Idlib to return to their homes in recently “liberated” territories.

(Al Jazeera) By AJLabs Published On 1 Dec 2024

French government hangs by a thread as far right threatens to pull the trigger

French government hangs by a thread as far right threatens to pull the trigger

 “Barring a last-minute miracle,” Jordan Bardella will vote to topple Prime Minister Michel Barnier — as France hurtles toward political and financial chaos.

December 2, 2024  By Victor Goury-Laffont

PARIS — It’s deadline day for French Prime Minister Michel Barnier.

Hanging over him is an ultimatum delivered by far-right leader Marine Le Pen: If he doesn’t cave to her budget demands, she could topple his government within 48 hours.

So it’s shaping up to be a crucial few days for France, with the reverberations likely to be felt across Europe. The country is the second-largest economy in the eurozone and is carrying a mountain of debt. Its government hasn’t been this fragile nor its parliament so fractured for a generation.

Monday will be a day of drama. Lawmakers are set to gather in the National Assembly to vote on next year’s social security budget. Barnier, who has only been prime minister since September after President Emmanuel Macron called a gratuitous election, desperately needs the budget to pass to avoid a crisis that will be as much political as financial.

The problem for Barnier is that his center-right government doesn’t hold a majority in the parliament, so he will need the tacit support of the far right. If he tries to circumvent a vote, meanwhile, the political opposition could cause his government to fall.

On Monday morning, Jordan Bardella, president of Le Pen's National Rally, said his party will vote to topple the government “barring a last-minute miracle” that Barnier would bring forward significant changes.

“The budget presented by the government is a budget of punishment that will weaken the purchasing power of our compatriots,” he told French radio RTL.

The aim of the budget is to regain control over France’s spiraling deficit, which is projected to hit 6.1 percent of the size of the economy this year. Barnier had initially planned €40 billion in spending cuts and €20 billion in tax hikes, but has already been forced to make some concessions on those numbers.

Aware of its kingmaker role, National Rally has put forward an ever-growing list of pre-Christmas demands it expects Barnier to meet in exchange for cooperation. The party has listed a series of “red lines” — policies it says will automatically lead to a vote of no confidence if they are included in the budget.

The question is who will blink first.

Le Pen told the AFP news agency on Sunday that the government had “ended the discussion,” adding: “There’s a chance we’ll draw the consequences of this extremely close-minded and sectarian behavior.”

Game of chicken

Barnier has two options on the table to pass the social security budget — and both require the cooperation of the National Rally.

The first is a traditional parliamentary route. Under this scenario, the bill would be put to a vote; to win, Barnier’s minority government, which is supported by a narrow coalition of centrist and conservative lawmakers, would need at least the tacit support of National Rally members. It would probably scrape through even if Le Pen’s troops abstained — presumably after having squeezed enough concessions out of Barnier.

The second option, which Barnier has said he is “likely” to use, involves skipping a vote altogether. The French constitution permits the government to do so, but the move also allows opposition parties to file a motion of no confidence — which, if submitted, would likely be put to a vote on Wednesday.

If that motion passes, the budget would also be rejected, and the government would automatically collapse.

The pan-left New Popular Front, which holds roughly a third of seats in the National Assembly, has already vowed to put forward a motion to topple the government. If the far right joins in, it’s all over for the Barnier administration.

Issues with the budget

If Barnier chooses the latter route, he can only hope Le Pen gets cold feet about plunging the country into financial chaos.

But the National Rally’s official position, for now, is that it won’t budge unless all its “red lines” are removed from the budget. “We still have issues [with the budget]… [Barnier] has until Monday,” Le Pen told Le Monde on Thursday.

Meanwhile, her wish list has expanded over the past few days. The National Rally is asking that the government scrap a tax hike on electricity, abandon a planned postponement to a yearly inflation adjustment for pensions, keep employer contribution exemptions on low wages, pledge not to delist certain drugs, “drastically cut” access to state-funded health care for undocumented immigrants, and “negotiate with Brussels a reduction in France’s contribution to the European Union budget.”

Barnier has started to give in, making a U-turn on his plans for electricity taxes and agreeing to keep employer contribution exemptions in place. He also attempted to seduce the far right in an interview with conservative daily Le Figaro with extra promises such as limiting the ability of individuals without documentation to access health care.

Barnier claims none of that was aimed at convincing Le Pen, but instead was a bid for consensus with all opposition parties.

Politics is also at play, with Le Pen wanting Barnier to lay the win at her feet. “I have a democratic issue with the insistence on saying that this is not a concession to the National Rally,” she said. “They want our votes, but not our faces associated with them.”

In an interview with Le Parisien published on Sunday, Budget Minister Laurent Saint-Martin seemingly shut the door on any last-minute concessions.

“There is no way to guarantee the restoration of state finances if we go further than we have already,” he said. “Compromise is not blackmail, there cannot be an ultimatum.”

In response, National Rally President Jordan Bardella took to X to accuse the government of being “stubborn” and “running the risk” of being toppled by “ending negotiations.”

The catch for Barnier? Even if he survives this week, he won’t be out of the woods. Later this month, if the social security bill passes, lawmakers will examine the overall state budget for next year, which will once again expose the prime minister to a vote of no confidence — and invariably, another set of demands from the National Rally. ⍐

Biden pardons his son, Hunter, after repeatedly saying he would not

Biden pardons his son, Hunter, after repeatedly saying he would not

By Jeff Mason December 2, 2024 

Biden says Hunter was unfairly prosecuted due to political motives

Hunter Biden admits past mistakes, pledges to help others in recovery

Biden cites selective prosecution, compares Hunter's case to typical resolutions

 

WASHINGTON, Dec 1 (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden said on Sunday he had pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, a reversal after pledging to stay out of legal proceedings against the younger Biden who pleaded guilty to tax violations and was convicted on firearms-related charges.

"Today, I signed a pardon for my son Hunter. From the day I took office, I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department's decision-making, and I kept my word even as I have watched my son being selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted," the president said in a statement.

The White House had said repeatedly that Biden would not pardon or commute sentences for Hunter, a recovering drug addict who became a target of Republicans, including President-elect Donald Trump.

"No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter's cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son," Biden said in a statement released shortly before leaving for a trip to Africa.

The grant of clemency said Biden had granted "a full and unconditional" pardon to Hunter Biden for any offenses in a window from Jan. 1, 2014, to Dec. 1, 2024.

Hunter Biden faced sentencing for the false statements and gun convictions this month. In September he pleaded guilty to federal charges of failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes while spending lavishly on drugs, sex workers and luxury items. He was scheduled for sentencing in that case on Dec. 16.

"I have admitted and taken responsibility for my mistakes during the darkest days of my addiction – mistakes that have been exploited to publicly humiliate and shame me and my family for political sport," Hunter Biden said in a statement on Sunday, adding he had remained sober for more than five years.

"In the throes of addiction, I squandered many opportunities and advantages ... I will never take the clemency I have been given today for granted and will devote the life I have rebuilt to helping those who are still sick and suffering."

Republicans criticized the president's move.

, opens new t"Does the Pardon given by Joe to Hunter include the J-6 Hostages, who have now been imprisoned for years? Such an abuse and miscarriage of Justice!" Trump said in a post on his Truth Social site, referring to those convicted for storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, after Trump claimed falsely that he had won the 2020 election.

"Joe Biden has lied from start to finish about his family's corrupt influence peddling activities," said Representative James Comer, chair of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

The president, whose son Beau died of brain cancer in 2015, said his opponents had sought to break Hunter with selective prosecution.

He said people were almost never brought to trial for felony charges for how they filled out a gun form, and said others who were late in paying taxes because of addiction but paid them back with interest and penalties, as his son had, typically received non-criminal resolutions to their cases.

"It is clear that Hunter was treated differently. The charges in his cases came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election," Biden said. "In trying to break Hunter, they've tried to break me – and there's no reason to believe it will stop here. Enough is enough."

In August 2023, lawyers for Hunter Biden said prosecutors had reneged on a plea deal that would have resolved the tax and firearms charges. The president said in his statement on Sunday that the plea deal "would have been a fair, reasonable resolution of Hunter's cases."

Biden said he had made his decision to pardon over the weekend. The president, his wife, Jill Biden, and their family including Hunter, spent the Thanksgiving holiday in Nantucket, Massachusetts, and returned to Washington on Saturday night.

"Here's the truth: I believe in the justice system, but as I have wrestled with this, I also believe raw politics has infected this process and it led to a miscarriage of justice – and once I made this decision this weekend, there was no sense in delaying it further," Biden said.

"I hope Americans will understand why a father and a President would come to this decision."

Joe Biden, Hunter Biden and Beau Jr., Nantucket, Massachusetts, November 29, 2024. REUTERS/Craig Hudson Purchase Licensing Rights

Moody's may raise credit rating, SL achieves significant step forward in EDR- IMF

 

Moody's may raise Sri Lanka's credit rating

Moody's may raise Sri Lanka's 'Ca' long-term foreign currency rating, the credit ratings agency said on Wednesday, following the government's bond-exchange offer aimed at completing the restructuring of international bonds.

The bond swap, launched on Tuesday, is an important part of the island nation's ongoing $12.55 billion debt restructuring and efforts to stabilize the economy.

Moody's provisionally rated the new U.S. dollar-denominated debt offerings 'Caa1', three notches above the current sovereign rating, though still deep into 'junk'. The government offered macro-linked bonds (MLBs), a governance-linked bond (GLB), and stepup and past-due interest bonds.

MLBs have a downside on principal and the GLB is the first of its kind, which raised doubts about whether agencies would rate the bonds - a requirement for inclusion in indexes.

"Moody's announcement of rating the MLBs is sensible and should support trading liquidity of the securities post exchange," said Samy Muaddi, head of emerging markets fixed income at T.Rowe Price, adding that the contingency features of the MLB build on established precedent in global fixed income.

Moody's said the offerings will rank equally with other similar government obligations.

Sri Lanka had defaulted on its foreign debt for the first time in May 2022, reeling under a severe crisis amid a heavy debt burden and declining foreign exchange reserves.

Sri Lankan USD bonds rose on Wednesday, with the June 2025 issue up 0.75 cent at 65.875 cents on the dollar.

(This story has been corrected to say that the government ‘offered,’ not ‘issued,’ in paragraph 3)

Source: Reuters

________________________________________

IMF MD says SL achieves significant step forward in EDR

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva yesterday said Sri Lanka achieved a significant step forward in terms of External Debt Restructuring following the setting up of the Exchange of International Sovereign Bonds and wide acceptance from creditors.

In a statement, Georgieva said: “The Sri Lankan authorities

 (IMF) Managing Director
Kristalina Georgieva

have been implementing an ambitious economic reform program supported by the IMF, which aims to restore debt sustainability and external viability, underpin broad macroeconomic reforms, and strengthen economic governance and transparency. Sri Lanka’s economic reform program is supported by an SDR 2.286 billion (about $ 3 billion), 48-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement, approved by the IMF’s Executive Board on 20 March 2023. The program has gotten off to a good start with the economy recovering, inflation remaining low, and reserves being accumulated. Following the completion of two reviews, IMF staff reached staff level agreement with the authorities on 23 November for the third review under the arrangement. In June 2024, Sri Lanka agreed on a memorandum of understanding with the Official Creditors Committee (OCC) and reached a final agreement with China EXIM Bank that would deliver a debt treatment by those creditors aimed at restoring debt sustainability consistent with IMF program parameters.”

“Building on this progress, and following several months of constructive discussions, the agreements reached by the Sri Lankan authorities with both the Steering Committee of the Ad Hoc Group of external bondholders, and the Local Consortium of Sri Lanka, mark a significant step forward. The terms of these agreements have been assessed by the Fund staff as being in line with the parameters of the IMF-supported program,” Georgieva said.

“Anchored by policies under the IMF-supported program, the successful implementation of these agreements will provide significant external debt service relief and further contribute to Sri Lanka’s efforts to restore debt sustainability,” she added.

The IMF Chief said to capitalise on this momentum, rapid completion of the debt operation with high creditor participation would be vital for the success of the program. In parallel, the authorities continue to finalise other remaining debt restructuring agreements. This collective effort is key to supporting the success of Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring efforts.

“The Sri Lankan authorities have reaffirmed their determination to persevere with their reform agenda and put the economy on a path of sustained and high growth. The continued support from international financial institutions and other official creditors, together with the participation of bondholders in a debt exchange consistent with debt sustainability, is necessary to underpin the success of these reform efforts. The IMF remains a steadfast partner in supporting Sri Lanka and its people and stands ready to assist the country achieve its economic and social reform goals,” IMF Chief Georgieva added.⍐

Tilvin Silva interview with Ceylon Today

Real challenge begins now

By

 Gagani Weerakoon

 -

CT November 23, 2024 2:02am

0

Tilvin Silva has been serving as the General Secretary of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) for nearly 30 years. He assumed leadership of the party in 1995, shortly after it was revived and re-entered mainstream politics. Starting from scratch, he held the same position until the party rose to power — a distant dream that many once believed would take another lifetime to realise. In a candid interview with Ceylon Today, the typically reserved JVP General Secretary seemed to have let his guard down slightly, sharing some personal and heartfelt insights.

What happens now?

A: Now, we proceed with governing the country.

What is your role now as the General Secretary of the JVP?

A: As the party’s General Secretary, I continue to fulfil the responsibilities entrusted to me. Previously, our focus was solely on building the party. Now, there is a government in place. Therefore, we are working on two fronts: developing the country in partnership with the government and continuing to strengthen the party.

Are you stepping down from the position of General Secretary?

A: Whether I remain in this role going forward is not my personal decision. No one holds onto positions like these eternally. Such roles must change. However, this cannot be done hastily; it requires the party’s decision.

Did you expect the National People’s Power (NPP) to gain this much support?

A: We always expected to win. There was no doubt about achieving victory. We knew we would succeed, but we didn’t anticipate securing 159 seats in Parliament.

Will you continue to contest elections under the NPP or return to competing as the JVP? Will the upcoming elections see more female candidates?

A: We plan to contest all future elections under the NPP banner. The forthcoming Local Government Election will also be held soon, and we intend to field a higher number of female candidates. The relevant percentages are clearly stated in the election laws. Regardless of legal mandates, we have consistently adhered to this practice. For this election, we aim to achieve over 25% female representation.

You walked on a path of thorns all these years and now that you are the ruling party. Moving forward, it won’t be necessary to make sacrifices like in the past, will it?

A: My entire life has been a thorny and bumpy road. My political journey spans 46 years. Amidst immense hardships, surviving on minimal means, I worked tirelessly towards a single goal. Now, there is great satisfaction. However, this doesn’t mean there’s nothing left to do. Moving forward, even greater sacrifices will be necessary because both the party and the country need to be rebuilt. To achieve that, we must work tirelessly. We cannot expect to achieve these goals for the country while living in comfort. The future holds even greater challenges, difficulties, and obstacles. It is in the days ahead that we will have to make the greatest sacrifices.

Why do you say greater sacrifices will be necessary in the future and it will be extremely challenging?

A: Rebuilding the country requires the party’s involvement. We now have a strong parliamentary group. It is essential to build a strong relationship between all MPs and the people. We didn’t take the power to divide positions among ourselves and live off them. Our goal is to truly lift the country from its current state. For that, we are ready to go to the grassroots level. We must set an example for everyone.

Even though this life has been filled with hardship, there is genuine happiness. Why? Because the people of this country have accepted the politics we’ve championed for decades and the things we’ve advocated. That brings us joy. Our hard work and sacrifices will never stop under any circumstances.

The “Clean Sri Lanka” programme is something we are undertaking collectively. I believe all members of the JVP and NPP are ready to contribute to this cause. Everyone is coming together to support and advance this work.

You became the party’s General Secretary in 1995. Since then, leaders have changed, some left the party, and there were times when the party’s strength seemed to weaken with defections. What were your thoughts during those times?

A: Since 1995, every time the party faced defeat, every one of us felt it deeply. However, those moments also gave us immense inner strength. Each defeat reaffirmed our determination to somehow uplift the country. During every setback, what we told our comrades was to use the situation to become stronger, to not let defeat drag us down. We repeatedly emphasised that defeats are opportunities to learn and grow. 

When people who had worked closely with the party left, it was deeply painful. Every time the party split; we suffered significant losses. However, I believe this is the nature of life and politics. Through it all, we never lost faith in our future victories, nor did we stop inspiring others. We rebuilt the party entirely, and I think establishing the NPP was one of our best decisions. 

There was a time when JVP members held ministerial positions, some became MPs, and now there is even a President, along with Ministers. Yet you remain the General Secretary. After all these years, what have you gained from holding this position? 

A: Some people ask what I have gained anything while others have reached positions. But even for them, it’s not about personal gain; they have only received responsibilities. For instance, Anura has gained the position of President, but he now has no time for even a small break. 

The President, our ministers, and all our members have no chance to accumulate wealth or lead luxurious lives. None of us are gaining any personal benefit from this work. We didn’t come to power to seek personal advantage but to lift the country from its current state. 

As a party, what we have gained is something invaluable — that is inner satisfaction. There is immense joy in knowing that we are truly working for the country. At this moment, the people’s love and trust in us as a party are at their highest. I don’t believe any other party has achieved this. 

For Anura, myself and every member of our party, the love and trust from the people are unparalleled. At this point, the affection we receive surpasses anything we have experienced before. I don’t think there is anything in this world more valuable than the people’s love. No material possession can compare to the trust and affection the public has for us. When the time comes for us to leave, all we will carry with us is the love and trust the people have given us, nothing else. If we have genuinely contributed something for the country and its people, we can face our final days with contentment. 

The JVP is known for producing passionate speakers, yet you have never been seen acting emotionally. Is this the real Tilvin or are you hiding behind a mask?

A: There are moments when I feel anger or strong emotion, but I never express it openly. I conduct my politics with a sense of discipline and restraint. 

You seem to have gained popularity on social media, especially after this victory. What are your thoughts on this?

A: I believe some of what circulates on social media is exaggerated. It’s a common phenomenon in global politics. When a political movement achieves a victory, some individuals sensationalise certain figures within it. But we shouldn’t let such things influence us. 

Since 1995, was there a moment that deeply saddened or shook you?

A: When reflecting on the party, two particularly upsetting moments come to mind. One was when a faction broke away from us and formed Frontline Socialists Party.  The other was when individuals like Wimal Weerawansa left. However, more than their departure, the most painful aspect was the criticism they directed towards the party and their former comrades as they left. It was disheartening to witness individuals who had worked together like brothers falling to such low levels. Yet, I came to terms with it, understanding that this is part and parcel of politics.

Your party often uses the term ‘traitors.’ Even in recent public speeches, you used this word. Why do you still use such divisive terms while embarking on a new journey?

A: Leaving a party and betraying a party are two different things. Betraying a political party or a movement means actively working to destroy it. Unfortunately, we have experienced such betrayals, and those incidents remain vividly in our memories.

We don’t seek revenge, but we will not forget. Forgetting those moments would be a disservice to those who fought tirelessly for the party. These factions also contributed to the movement and our party at certain times and we are not disregarding those. But the damage they did to this party and our movement cannot be ignored. If we forgive and forget Judases and their treachery what will happen to those who shed blood, sweat, and tears to build and protect this party and its cadre?  I don’t think I can enter into any peace pacts with such ‘traitors’.

Some wonder whether you even possess a passport. Have you travelled abroad?

A: (Laughing) I do have a standard normal passport. I’ve travelled to Japan, South Korea, Nepal, Bangladesh, Kuwait, Qatar, Dubai, France, Italy, Switzerland, the UK, Denmark, and China.

Where did you travel first?

A: My first international trip was to Nepal in the year 2000.

If asked to name your favourite country, what would it be?

A: Among the countries I’ve visited, I admired Japan for its discipline. Nepal also left an impression with its unique culture — a Hindu culture that still felt very familiar and close to us. But if I were to pick one, it would be France, for its rich artistic and historical heritage. Upon reflection, France holds the most appeal for me.

Who is Tilvin Silva really?

A: I’m just an ordinary citizen of this country. From a young age, I’ve experienced hardship, and the pain of seeing my mother suffer left a deep impression on me. It instilled a determination that no mother in this country should have to endure such struggles. Similarly, I don’t want any child in this country to go through the hardships I faced growing up. I carry a strong commitment to leading society towards a better place.

On another note, I have a deep appreciation for art and culture, and I tend to be somewhat sensitive. I am friendly with everyone and full of affection for all, except for those who have wronged me or the party. I prefer not to be in the limelight, although there are instances when I have no choice but to step into it. I try my best to avoid such situations. That’s why I rarely attend public events unless it’s absolutely necessary. I enjoy fulfilling responsibilities in a simple and sincere manner.

What do you mean by having an appreciation for art?

A: Even with a busy workload, I truly enjoy listening to music while working. My favourite singer is Jothipala, and I’m particularly fond of his songs. That said, I do listen to music by others, including contemporary young artists. Since my fondness for music is well known, there are moments when colleagues send me songs they think I’d enjoy, even while I’m at the office.

I also have a great love for books and would even say I’m deeply attached to them. I don’t focus on specific genres or authors — I read anything I come across. I especially enjoy books related to politics and philosophy. However, my political work has slightly disrupted my reading habits. At the moment, most of what I’ve been reading are translations. I don’t have a specific favourite author, as my preferences vary from book to book. I’ve read almost all Soviet translations, though.

Who is your role model when it comes to politics?

A: Philosophically, my political ideals are shaped by Marx, Engels, and Lenin. On a more spiritual and practical level, Fidel Castro is someone I admire deeply. While many are drawn to Che Guevara for his revolutionary leadership, I connect more with Fidel. He resonated with me because he embraced culture and lived with a sense of joy despite the struggles of his time. He was someone who engaged in politics selflessly, without amassing anything for himself.

Within our party, Comrade Rohana (Wijeweera)was both a teacher and a leader to me. Another political figure I admired greatly was a comrade named Nandatilaka from the Tissamaharama, although he is no longer with us. He played a significant role in inspiring me to read extensively. He encouraged me by bringing me books, fostering my interest in reading. It’s largely thanks to him that I developed this passion.

How did you join the party? Do you remember when was that?

A: I got involved in politics in the late 1970s. At the time, I was still in school, and I had a growing interest in leftist ideas through reading books. The 1970s were a period in our country when leftist ideologies were gaining prominence. During that time, I was reading works by authors like Kumara Karunaratne, whose writings were very popular. These books, along with the Soviet literature I came across, contained ideas about socialism that resonated with me. I also felt a certain affinity for the JVP during this time, which eventually led me to the party. 

At one point, I dropped out of school and started looking for work. After working in various jobs, I eventually joined a tourist hotel. While working there I acquainted with an individual and with him I came to Kandy to work in a hotel. He is also someone who introduced me to the JVP. I remember it was 1977 and I went to listen to Comrade Wijeweera. That was the second political rally he held after being released from the prison. It was held in Bogambara and I attended this assembly and listened to Rohana speak, which deeply impacted me. 

It was in 1978 that I officially joined the party, and since 1979, I have been a full-time member, working continuously for the party up to this day. 

Where are you originally from, and where do you live now?

A: My ancestral home is in Mullepitiya, Beruwala. That’s where my family home is, and I still go to Beruwala to vote. My younger brother still lives there. Unfortunately, both my parents are no longer alive. 

I haven’t built a home of my own. For now, I live in a house owned by a comrade who resides abroad. My current residence is  that house. 

I come from a family of three younger brothers and a sister, with me being the eldest.

What exactly are the responsibilities of the General Secretary?

A: The primary duty of the General Secretary is overseeing all organisational activities of the party. It is a vast responsibility, as the General Secretary manages the organisational structure, supervises its operations, and ensures everything is functioning as intended. The General Secretary is entrusted with the authority over the party’s finances and assets.

Additionally, the General Secretary is responsible for the party’s education and organisational programmes, ensuring that these areas are well-maintained and aligned with the party’s goals. In essence, the General Secretary plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day functioning and long-term sustenance of the party.

Do you see anyone suitable to lead the party in the future?

A: At present, we have a new generation of individuals closely associated with the party. There is a fresh group of young members involved with the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), who are enthusiastic and full of ideas. These young members are exceptionally capable, well-educated, and proactive in presenting proposals and suggestions for the party’s progress.

This new generation is more advanced and resourceful than we were. They are smart and bring innovative thinking to the table. Therefore, we have no fears regarding the future of the party. We are confident that these talented young people, who are part of our movement, will take the reins and guide the party forward.

These decisions about leadership are not made by individuals or the wider society but by the party itself. Even I cannot decide my own position or tenure. My role, like others, is determined by the requirements of the party and its collective decision-making process.

Ultimately, we dedicate ourselves to this political journey for life. This is not a temporary endeavour but a lifelong commitment to serving our cause.

Have there been times when you thought about quitting, feeling it was too difficult to continue?

A: I have never thought that it was too difficult to carry on or that I should stop. However, there have been moments of exhaustion. Despite that, due to our strong commitment to the work we are doing, we have pushed through every obstacle. The other reason is that in our party, there is no opportunity for any of us to be alone — we are always together.

Have you been to Parliament at some point?

A: In the past, I have attended a few parliamentary activities here and there, but I have never been to the gallery. I won’t be going tomorrow (referring to 21 November) either. Honestly, I don’t feel inclined to go towards Parliament.⍐