Former Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa, son of ex-President Mahinda Rajapaksa, is reportedly shifting his focus from Hambantota to the Kurunegala district for the upcoming parliamentary elections. This decision follows internal discussions within the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP). The move is likely driven by vote dynamics observed in Hambantota during the last presidential election, which has prompted Rajapaksa to target a district with a larger voter base.
However, this decision has caused tension within the party, particularly with long-time SLPP member Johnston Fernando, who also represents Kurunegala. With both high-profile politicians contesting from the same district, there is now uncertainty about whether both can secure a seat in the upcoming election. The SLPP, based on its vote tally in the last presidential election, is only guaranteed one National List seat, increasing the competition between Namal and Johnston for a spot in Parliament.
This intra-party rivalry highlights the challenges SLPP faces ahead of the elections, as key figures vie for limited opportunities amidst shifting political allegiances.
