When people pay for political barnstorming

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is set to embark on a nationwide speaking tour as part of the JVP/NPP's reorganisation effort, in response to a recent decline in the government's approval ratings. This move may serve as a prelude to a possible referendum on the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, or as a demonstration of the government's strength. Opposition politicians have been challenged to protest against the current administration if they can muster public support against it.

The government has been criticized for its excessive use of public funds during political campaigns, with rumors of lavish travel and security expenses for politicians, including former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who faced accusations of misuse. Although the JVP-NPP government had promised to curb VIP travel and have politicians travel in buses and trains, they have been seen using luxury vehicles instead.

Similar to past governments, the incumbent administration has been accused of funding political campaigns through public funds, though fuel expenses represent only a small fraction of the overall costs. Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe was arrested for allegedly misusing state funds to cover his travel and security expenses while in office.

While the JVP-NPP has pledged to adopt austerity measures akin to former President Jose Mujica of Uruguay, who lived frugally during his tenure, the current leaders seem to have not followed through on their promises. The misuse of public funds for political campaigns must be brought to an end, and this issue should be part of the "system change" the current government has promised.