Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has declared that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the United National Party (UNP) have already united, dismissing the need for further discussions or committees to formalize cooperation.
He made these remarks while addressing the May Day rally held on May 1 at the P.D. Sirisena Ground in Maligawatta, Colombo.
During his speech, Premadasa expressed appreciation to former President Ranil Wickremesinghe for sending a congratulatory message to the SJB’s May Day rally. He noted that although Wickremesinghe had proposed appointing a committee to facilitate collaboration between the two parties, such measures were now unnecessary as unity had already been achieved.
Premadasa also alleged that certain individuals were attempting to undermine this unification through internal efforts, stressing that no room would be allowed for such actions.
Addressing the gathering, he criticized the JVP-led government, accusing it of weakening state institutions and engaging in mismanagement and corruption, particularly in areas such as port operations, coal imports, and public finance. He further claimed that no accountability had been taken for a reported loss of US$2.5 million in national resources.
He stated that without the intervention of the SJB and its allied groups, several key issues affecting schoolchildren, the port sector, and the power industry would not have been addressed, adding that significant public funds could otherwise have been misused.
Referring to remarks by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake about “cartels” and a “network of lies,” Premadasa alleged that misinformation was being used to mislead the public.
Highlighting the significance of the rally, he said it reflected renewed hope among the people and pledged that an SJB-led administration would deliver effective governance and national development.
Premadasa also pointed to the economic hardships faced by farmers, fishermen, workers, and other vulnerable groups, noting that many continue to struggle financially. He referenced unfulfilled relief promises to those affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
He added that the SJB aims to move beyond traditional political practices by introducing modern governance reforms, including initiatives such as “Sakwala” and “Husma,” alongside efforts to promote digital transformation and artificial intelligence education in schools.
He further stated that the SJB and its allies have taken steps to address parliamentary accountability and governance-related concerns.
Reiterating his earlier point, Premadasa emphasized that the SJB and UNP are already united, making further committee-level discussions unnecessary.
He also challenged President Dissanayake to hold Provincial Council elections without delay, stating that the opposition is ready to face any electoral contest, while adding that cooperation within the opposition alliance will continue to strengthen in the lead-up to future political developments.