Political analysts have highlighted a notable development in this year’s general election, as none of the key leaders of the United National Party (UNP) have decided to contest.
Party leader Ranil Wickremesinghe, Deputy Leader Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Chairman Vajira Abeywardena, and General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara have all opted out of running for office this time around.
However, it has been noted that Administrative Secretary Ravi Karunanayake has been included on the national list.
This marks the first instance in the party’s history, since its founding by the late D.S. Senanayake, where all four key positions—leader, deputy leader, chairman, and general secretary—are not fielding candidates in a general election.
While Ranil Wickremesinghe did contest the previous presidential election, analysts suggest his candidacy was more focused on undermining Sajith Premadasa’s chances than securing a win for himself.
