Historic First: Vraie Cally Balthazaar Elected Colombo’s First NPP Mayor

 In a momentous turn in Colombo’s political history, Vraie Cally Balthazaar has been elected the first-ever National People’s Power (NPP) Mayor of Sri Lanka’s capital city, following a closely contested vote at the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC). Her victory—securing 61 votes via secret ballot, surpassing the 54 votes received by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) candidate Mohammed Riza Zarook, with two ballots declared invalid—marks not only a personal milestone for Balthazaar, but also a pivotal shift in the city’s political landscape.

A Break from the Past, A Step Toward the Future

For decades, Colombo’s City Hall has been dominated by traditional parties and figures. But the tide has turned. With Balthazaar’s election, history has been made, not just as the first NPP Mayor, but as a fresh, reform-minded voice determined to drain the “swamp” that long mired city administration in inefficiency and alleged corruption.

“We have a long journey ahead,” she told the Council in her inaugural address. “The CMC is not like Parliament. We must work together—not as the ruling party or Opposition, but as one united body coming together to improve Colombo.”

Her message of unity, transparency, and service struck a powerful chord. She emphasized that all 117 elected members, regardless of party affiliation, hold collective responsibility for the city’s development.

A Victory Built on Principles

In a post-vote discussion, Balthazaar acknowledged that the NPP’s win was powered in part by early support from independent groups that resonated with the NPP’s progressive, citizen-first ideology.

“I think they also endorse the principles of the NPP to serve the city of Colombo,” she remarked, adding that the support didn’t come as a surprise but as the result of shared vision and values.

Joining her in this new leadership is Hemantha Kumara, who was appointed Deputy Mayor in the same session, solidifying the NPP’s foothold in the heart of the country’s commercial capital.

The Challenges Ahead

Make no mistake: the path ahead is steep. Colombo is a city battling deep-rooted issues, unregulated parking mafias, corrupt city market systems, chaotic garbage management, and approval rackets that have long stifled growth and fairness. As the new Mayor, Balthazaar will have to leap over political landmines and entrenched interests to drive real change.

But with her background in design, media, and equal rights advocacy, and a strong public presence shaped by her experience as an English TV presenter, she brings a rare combination of vision, communication skill, and empathy to the job.

Namo Magazine Salutes You

At Namo Magazine, we believe moments like this remind us why democracy matters. It gives the people the chance to try something new, someone new.

Vraie Cally Balthazaar, you are not just breaking barriers, you are building bridges. To the people of Colombo, to those tired of empty promises and broken systems—this moment is a glimmer of hope. A chance to turn a new page. To drain the swamp. To build a city that serves all its citizens equally.

Congratulations, Madam Mayor. You are making history. And we’re honored to witness it.

Wishing you wisdom, courage, and strength in the days to come.