SJB and UNP Already United, Says Sajith Premadasa at May Day Rally
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stated that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the United National Party (UNP) have already united.
He made these remarks while addressing the May Day rally held today (01) at P. D. Sirisena Ground in Colombo.
During his speech, Premadasa expressed gratitude to former President Ranil Wickremesinghe for sending a congratulatory message to the SJB May Day rally. He noted that although Wickremesinghe had proposed appointing a committee to facilitate cooperation between the two parties, such measures were no longer necessary as both parties had already come together.
Premadasa further alleged that certain individuals within such committees attempt to undermine this unity, emphasizing that no room would be given to such efforts.
He stated that without the intervention of the SJB and its allied movements, several issues affecting schoolchildren, the port sector, and the power sector would not have been addressed, adding that large sums of public funds could have been misused otherwise.
“This May Day is different; there is a new sense of hope among the people. Under the leadership of the SJB, we will establish a government that delivers results and develops the country, replacing the current administration,” he said.
He also highlighted the economic hardships faced by farmers, fishermen, workers, and other vulnerable communities, noting that many are struggling financially. He referred to unfulfilled relief promises made to those affected by Cyclone ‘Ditwah’.
Premadasa added that the SJB aims to move beyond traditional politics by introducing modern governance reforms, including initiatives such as “Sakwala” and “Husma,” along with programmes to promote digital transformation and artificial intelligence education in schools.
He further stated that the SJB and allied opposition groups have taken steps to address parliamentary accountability and governance issues.
Reiterating his earlier point, Premadasa said that the unity between the SJB and UNP has already been achieved, making further committee discussions unnecessary.
He also challenged President Dissanayake to hold Provincial Council elections without delay, stating that the opposition is ready to face any electoral contest.
