The United Republican Front (URF) held its first public meeting for the upcoming Kotte Municipal Council election in the Colombo District near Hewawitharana College, Rajagiriya. The event was organized by Kotte Municipal Council candidate Duthanga Seneviratne and was chaired by URF leader Patali Champika Ranawaka.
During his speech, Patali Champika Ranawaka strongly criticized the current government, accusing it of breaking promises and misleading the public. He specifically accused President Anura Dissanayake of failing to deliver on commitments related to rice, food taxes, and electricity cost reductions.
Ranawaka criticized the government’s decision to cut off solar energy and rely on diesel and coal for electricity, which he claimed has led to further financial losses for the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). He also pointed out that despite the government’s claims of tackling corruption, it has failed to take action against the real wrongdoers and is instead engaging in political vendettas.
He challenged Anura Dissanayake to conduct an investigation into the Batalanda torture chamber and to file a case against former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe if they are truly committed to justice.
Ranawaka urged voters to support the United Republican Front in the upcoming local government elections, promising that his party would effectively address issues such as beggar control, stray animals, city cleanliness, and garbage management in Kotte. He assured that URF has practical solutions to generate new income for the council.
Addressing the Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte Municipal Council election, Ranawaka confirmed that the 2018 electoral system would be used. He criticized the government’s previous postponement of the election in March 2023, citing lack of funds, and reminded the audience that the Supreme Court had ruled that the election must take place.
Ranawaka also reflected on the country’s recent economic and political crises, blaming misguided leadership for leading Sri Lanka into bankruptcy. He pointed out that the debt repayment period has now been pushed to 2042, but payments will resume in 2028. He criticized the electorate for previously voting in 150 unknown politicians who, he argued, have now been exposed as liars.
Ranawaka concluded by emphasizing the need for strong, competent leadership at the local level and assured that the United Republican Front is committed to bringing real change.
