The New Democratic Front (NDF) is embroiled in fierce internal competition over its remaining National List parliamentary seat, following the controversial nomination of Ravi Karunanayake for one of the two available positions.
Several prominent figures have been proposed for the second seat, including former Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, former Minister Faizer Mustafa, ex-Minister of Energy Kanchana Wijesekera, and former Chief of Staff Sagala Ratnayake. These individuals either contested the 2024 general election under the NDF banner or were part of its National List nominations.
The contention reflects growing tensions within the alliance, which comprises the United National Party (UNP), Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), and Podujana Eksath Nidahas Peramuna. The competition has been described as a “deadly battle” by party insiders, with each faction lobbying heavily to secure the seat for its preferred candidate.
This internal dispute follows widespread criticism over Karunanayake’s nomination, which former President and NDF leader Ranil Wickremesinghe reportedly claimed was made without his or other coalition members’ consent. The controversy has further strained relations within the alliance as it struggles to consolidate its parliamentary presence after securing three elected seats and two National List slots in the recent general election.
The final decision on the remaining National List seat is expected to be made in the coming days, with significant implications for the balance of power within the NDF.
