Sajith Premadasa challenges the government to hold provincial council elections immediately, as SJB and UNP unite for a common purpose.
Sajith Premadasa has challenged the government to hold provincial council elections immediately, saying the people must be given the chance to express their mandate without further delay.
The Opposition Leader made the call while addressing the Samagi Jana Balawegaya May Day rally held at the P.D. Sirisena Stadium in Maligawatta, Colombo.
Premadasa said the government should allow the democratic process to move forward and give citizens the opportunity to deliver their verdict through provincial council elections.
His remarks come amid growing political pressure over delayed polls, governance concerns, economic hardship, and allegations of corruption against the government.
The Opposition Leader further stated that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya and the United National Party have already come together and are prepared to move forward collectively for a common purpose.
He said proposals had been made to appoint separate committees to formalise cooperation between the two parties.
However, Premadasa pointed out that such a step was unnecessary because the alliance had already been practically formed.
This raises concerns for the government, as a united opposition front could create stronger pressure ahead of any future election cycle.
Premadasa also emphasized that certain groups are attempting to break the unity between the Samagi Jana Balawegaya and the United National Party.
He warned that those attempts would not be allowed to succeed under any circumstances.
The Opposition Leader then turned his criticism toward the government’s economic management, governance methods, and corruption allegations.
He alleged that the government had weakened state institutions at a time when the country required discipline, competence, and urgent solutions.
Premadasa said farmers, workers, professionals, and vulnerable communities are facing serious challenges and need immediate answers.
He stated that his party has an alternative plan to address those issues and rebuild confidence among the public.
The SJB leader also said he would work together with other progressive forces to rebuild the country and establish a more efficient system of governance.
His comments indicate that the Opposition is attempting to position itself not only as a critic of the government, but as a coalition ready to offer a governing alternative.
However, questions remain over how the government will respond to the demand for immediate provincial council elections.
For Premadasa, delaying the polls would deny the people a chance to express their democratic mandate.
For the government, holding elections could become a major test of public confidence at a time when economic pressure and political criticism are increasing.
What happens next could be critical as the Opposition seeks to turn May Day momentum into a broader campaign for elections, unity, and accountability.
Premadasa urged the government to hold the elections immediately, without delaying the democratic process, and allow the people to express their decision.
