July 22, Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe reassured that he will disclose his decision when the time is right.
The President made this announcement in response to Minister Prasanna Ranatunga’s call for an immediate announcement of his candidacy.
“Minister Ranatunga extended an invitation to me. You must always respond to an invitation. I will answer Minister Ranatunga’s request at the proper moment,” Wickremesinghe said during a rally in Kadawatha.
Minister Ranatunga had passionately urged President Wickremesinghe to declare his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election within the next week, emphasising the eagerness of the people of Gampaha for his decision.
Instead of announcing his candidacy, President Wickremesinghe reiterated his appeal for the opposition’s support in transforming Sri Lanka into a developed nation.
“I urge the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), National People’s Power (NPP), and SLFP to join us in this endeavour. The current need is a national agenda. The days when each political party could pursue its own agenda are over. The political climate must align with the national agenda,” he said.
The President noted that the opposition has repeatedly rejected his request for cooperation. “Every three months, I have asked for the opposition’s support, but they have consistently denounced me,” he said.
He also mentioned that Sri Lanka has successfully reached an agreement with all creditors. “Creditors will announce this in the coming days,” the President stated.
Highlighting the economic challenge, President Wickremesinghe said, “Sri Lanka needs to increase its GDP fivefold by 2040. We have increased revenues to ensure the people can live without fear.”
UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene also urged the main opposition SJB to support national revival efforts. “Your duty is to the nation, not just to seizing power. President Wickremesinghe has introduced a new political culture, which explains why we work with the SLPP,” he said.
