At a press conference held today (05) at the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) headquarters, Parliamentarian Dr. Harsha De Silva voiced concerns regarding a potential political alignment between President Ranil Wickremesinghe and National People’s Power (NPP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
During the event, Dr. Harsha De Silva referenced a statement made by President Wickremesinghe at a public rally in Mahiyangana, where the President reportedly claimed that SJB leader Sajith Premadasa is incapable of defeating Anura Kumara Dissanayake in the upcoming elections. Further, the President allegedly instructed members of the United National Party (UNP) to withhold their votes from Premadasa.
Dr. Harsha De Silva criticized the President’s remarks, suggesting that they reveal a shift in political dynamics, noting that traditionally, governance was divided between the ruling party under the Prime Minister and the opposition under the Leader of the Opposition. He remarked that the current political landscape is in flux, with key figures associated with the President’s camp appearing to lose political influence.
The MP also highlighted the President’s struggles in leading his own party, recalling that under Wickremesinghe’s leadership, the UNP failed to secure a single parliamentary seat in the last general election, resulting in the President’s entry into Parliament via the National List.
Dr. Harsha De Silva suggested there is an underlying political agreement between President Wickremesinghe and Anura Kumara Dissanayake. He accused the President’s allies of trying to demoralize UNP members who have aligned with the SJB by spreading false narratives about a potential coalition between Premadasa and Wickremesinghe.
Additionally, he criticized the President for allegedly providing significant media opportunities and state support to Dissanayake, allowing him to gain increased public visibility. According to Dr. De Silva, this indicates a collaborative effort between the two leaders.
Citing survey results, Dr. Harsha De Silva claimed that Premadasa is currently leading the presidential race, with Dissanayake in second place and Wickremesinghe trailing behind. He urged voters not to waste their vote on Wickremesinghe, stating that only Premadasa has the potential to secure victory in the upcoming presidential election.
