July 18, Colombo (LNW): The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has expressed concerns over a recent gathering involving senior members of the United National Party (UNP) and officials from the Election Commission.
SJB MP Mayantha Dissanayake highlighted the necessity for transparency regarding the discussions held between the UNP General Secretary, the Chairman, and members of the Election Commission, especially given the public calls by UNP leaders for early Presidential elections.
Dissanayake noted that although the Election Commission will eventually set the election date, the exact details of the meeting remain unclear and are anticipated to be disclosed in the near future.
Moreover, the SJB MP emphasised that the forthcoming 2024 Presidential election could be unprecedented, potentially featuring two members from the same Cabinet as candidates.
He alluded to speculation surrounding the current President’s candidacy, which is yet to be officially announced, and mentioned expectations that Justice Minister Wijedasa Rajapakshe might also contest under an SLFP-led alliance.
Hence, the 2024 Presidential election could see a unique scenario with two Cabinet members competing for the presidency, he added.