October 01, Colombo (LNW): The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has called for the resignation of United National Party (UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe as a key condition for forming an electoral alliance ahead of the upcoming General Election.
Former MP Harshana Rajakaruna stated that the SJB is open to integrating UNP members into its ranks, but only if Wickremesinghe steps down.
Rajakaruna made it clear that UNP members should consider aligning with the SJB rather than staying with the UNP under its current leadership.
“Those still supporting Mr Wickremesinghe can remain in Sirikotha, but we invite the majority of UNPers to join the SJB. We have repeatedly asked Mr Wickremesinghe to resign, but he has yet to do so,” Rajakaruna explained during a briefing.
He also expressed doubts about whether the UNP leadership would be handed over to the SJB even if Wickremesinghe were to step aside.
At the same time, a grassroots movement within the UNP is reportedly gathering momentum, with resolutions in favour of Wickremesinghe continuing as party leader being passed in several districts, including Galle.
UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena offered a different perspective, advocating for the formation of a common opposition alliance as the most viable strategy for the General Election.
“Given the current political landscape, uniting opposition parties would be the best course of action. This approach would strengthen our position and provide a unified front for the General Election,” Abeywardena said.
He added that, in light of the main opposition’s prolonged inability to secure power in the last seven decades, a common alliance could offer a new pathway forward.
The UNP is currently exploring the possibility of reaching consensus with other opposition parties to contest as a collective force, and further details are expected to be shared in the coming weeks.
