The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has expressed its willingness to form a political alliance with the United National Party (UNP), a move that could reshape Sri Lanka’s political landscape. Gampaha District SJB MP Harshana Rajakaruna stated that the merger could happen under the condition that Sajith Premadasa, leader of the SJB and former presidential candidate, takes the leadership role in the united front. This announcement came during a media briefing held in Colombo.
Rajakaruna emphasized that discussions regarding the merger would likely commence once President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the leader of the UNP, returns to Sri Lanka. He expressed optimism about bridging gaps between the two parties and highlighted the need for unity among right-wing political groups to address the challenges facing the country.
The SJB’s call for a merger underscores a strategic move to consolidate political power by bringing together members of the UNP, including its long-time leader Wickremesinghe. Rajakaruna urged all UNP supporters to reconcile differences and join forces with the SJB for a collective effort to build a more robust political platform. He stressed that the unification of these parties is essential for overcoming current divisions and presenting a strong political alternative to the electorate.
The proposed alliance reflects the SJB’s vision of fostering cooperation among like-minded political forces, particularly those with right-leaning ideologies. The collaboration aims to strengthen their collective political influence while offering a united front to tackle pressing national issues and provide a more cohesive governance model.
