Not under a ‘Kalu Kumara’ spell – Colombo Mayor

2026-02-11 - 03:40

Colombo Mayor Vraie Cally Balthazaar said that she does not act under anyone’s influence, and urged members not to use the term “Pelawatta” in a derogatory manner. The Mayor made these remarks at a Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) meeting held yesterday (Feb. 10), in response to a statement by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP – Roy Bogahawattha. Addressing the council, Bogahawattha had said, “You have been adjusting, organizing, and governing this council for the past 08 months. I do not think any other MC has faced this many issues, problems, and challenges. In villages, they believe that beautiful women fall under the spell of the fabled ‘Kalu Kumara’. Likewise, at present, you are governing this council the way the ‘Kalu Kumara of Pelawatta’ wants. However, there are experienced and intelligent councillors and officials here. If you obtain their suggestions and proceed, you will not go wrong.” Responding, the Mayor said, “The word ‘Pelawatta’ keeps being used repeatedly in this council. Our politics are different. I came to this position representing the National People’s Power. I stand with my 48 councillors, the members who support us, and everyone here. But my politics will not change. We have a policy, which we will take forward. Do not use the word ‘Pelawatta’ in a derogatory manner. I am not under anyone’s ‘Kalu Kumara’ influence. However, when working here, we do tend to get passionate at times.” (Source: Aruna)