As Sri Lanka battles disaster fallout, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe signals readiness to guide the government, stressing experience over ambition and service over positions.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe is prepared to advise the current government on disaster management if his support is sought, United National Party General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala said at a media briefing held today (17).
She emphasized that Wickremesinghe’s extensive international connections and more than five decades of political experience could be valuable in addressing the country’s disaster-related challenges. However, she made it clear that any such assistance would only be offered at the request of the government.
“We can help the government based on the teachings we received from our leader. However, none of us expect positions in this government,” Athukorala said, underscoring that the UNP’s stance is rooted in national responsibility rather than political gain.
She noted that effective disaster response requires experience, global engagement, and institutional knowledge, qualities she said Wickremesinghe possesses in abundance. The offer, she added, reflects a willingness to contribute constructively during a national emergency, without seeking office, influence, or political advantage.
