November 16, Colombo (LNW): United National Party (UNP) Chairman Vajira Abeywardena highlighted the unprecedented trust shown by voters in the North toward a political party from the South during the 2024 Parliamentary Election, calling it a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s electoral history.
“This is a very special occasion. For the first time, people in the North have placed trust in a southern political party, despite the presence of various regional parties in the North and East,” Abeywardena said.
He noted that representatives from the North joining the Cabinet as active participants in governance marks a promising step forward for national unity. “This is a victory for all Sri Lankans, and we express our happiness about it,” he added.
Abeywardena pointed out that, historically, Tamil leaders in the Cabinet represented their own parties, with Minister Douglas Devananda being an example, but not as part of a southern political party.
Looking ahead, Abeywardena mentioned plans for the UNP to contest the upcoming Local Government Election independently under the elephant symbol, avoiding coalitions. He acknowledged the low voter turnout in the recent election, attributing it to members of defeated parties and their unmet expectations.
The UNP Chairman commended the historic victory of the current President and his government, stating it creates a unique opportunity to address the nation’s challenges. “The government now has the responsibility to use this powerful mandate for the betterment of all 22 million Sri Lankans. There is no longer room to say it cannot be done,” he asserted.
Abeywardena emphasized the importance of tackling domestic and international challenges, urging Sri Lankans to allow the government the space to fulfill its promises. “We must wait and see how they deliver on the hope they have given to the people,” he concluded.
