September 06, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena emphasized the importance of preventing the country from falling victim to extremist experiments, as Sri Lanka works to strengthen its international relations after emerging from isolation. He made these remarks during the launch of the Podujana Eksath Nidahas Peramuna, the broadest political alliance in the country, at the Water’s Edge Hotel in Battaramulla yesterday.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Gunawardena, who chairs the new alliance, stated, “Let’s not victimize the country to extremist experiments since it has already become able to deal with the international community through friendship.” The alliance, themed “Combination of Courage for a Winning Country,” aims to chart a new direction for Sri Lankan politics.
The alliance’s Secretary General, Minister Ramesh Pathirana, joined Prime Minister Gunawardena in unveiling the alliance’s new logo, a “trophy.” Following the unveiling, agreements were signed with leaders of various political parties that joined the alliance, including representatives from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Mahajana Eksath Peramuna, United Peoples Party, Eelam People’s Democratic Party, Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal Party, National Congress, United People’s Party, National Unity Front, and Deshapremi Janatha Balawegaya.
Prime Minister Gunawardena described the alliance’s creation as a historic moment, emphasizing the shared commitment of its members to overcome challenges and secure the future of Sri Lanka. He referred to the political and economic crisis that led to the resignation of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, and the subsequent appointment of Ranil Wickremesinghe as President by a parliamentary majority.
Highlighting the alliance’s mission, he stated that unity and cooperation among national and progressive forces are crucial to developing the country through a new program based on parliamentary democracy and public trust. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to work toward achieving the goals of social and economic development expected by the younger generation and called for everyone’s support and contribution.
Alliance General Secretary Dr. Ramesh Pathirana criticized opposing groups for spreading misinformation and making false promises, reaffirming the alliance’s commitment to contesting future elections and urging people to set aside party differences to rebuild the country.
The newly formed Podujana Eksath Nidahas Peramuna is committed to winning the upcoming September 21 presidential election and future elections, working closely with all allied parties and forces.
