Colombo, September 25 – Talks between the United National Party (UNP) and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) regarding a potential alliance for the upcoming General Election are still in progress, despite SJB leader Sajith Premadasa’s statement that his party is open to collaborating with the UNP. During a joint press conference held by UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene, Rajitha Senaratne, and UNP Assistant Leader Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, it was reiterated that UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe has decided not to contest any future elections, adhering to a longstanding tradition within the party. “President J. R. Jayewardene did not contest after his retirement, and late President D.B. Wijetunga followed suit. Mr. Wickremesinghe will uphold this tradition,” the officials stated. Instead, Wickremesinghe is expected to take on an advisory role within the party.
UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardene confirmed this decision, noting that while Wickremesinghe would remain available for national service if necessary, he would not be running in the elections. Wijewardene emphasized the UNP’s intent to form a broad alliance and expressed the hope of garnering support from SJB members who may favor joining a common front. “There are some SJB members who are in favor of joining a grand alliance, and we will be in discussions with them,” he noted in response to queries about potential opposition from SJB leadership. Dr. Senaratne mentioned that the UNP has the backing of most parties allied with Wickremesinghe and aims to include others, like the SJB, in this coalition. Reports suggest that Wickremesinghe has tasked Talatha Atukorala and Wijewardene with initiating discussions with other parties to establish a grand alliance, with details regarding the alliance’s symbol and other logistical matters to be determined later.
In contrast, senior members of the SJB have expressed a firm stance against forming a coalition with the UNP for the General Election. A party spokesman confirmed that Sajith Premadasa will be fielded as the SJB’s Prime Ministerial candidate. “The SJB will present our leader as the Prime Ministerial candidate, and this decision has already been made by the party seniors,” he stated. SJB National Organizer Tissa Attanayake reinforced this position, declaring to the media that there is no necessity for the SJB to ally with the UNP. He emphasized plans for grassroots reorganization and preparation for the General Election.
As discussions continue, the political landscape remains dynamic, with both the UNP and SJB exploring their strategies for the upcoming elections. The outcome of these talks could significantly influence the electoral framework and party alignments in the lead-up to the General Election.
