United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara has refuted claims by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) regarding statements allegedly made at the May Day rally held at Maligawatta. Speaking at a media briefing at Sirikotha, the UNP headquarters, Bandara clarified that he did not make any such statements about a group of SJB MPs joining the UNP. However, he expressed the belief that most SJB MPs, except for a few aligned with Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, would support the UNP in the upcoming Presidential Election.
Bandara noted that all major political parties, through their May Day rallies, have signaled their preparedness for the Presidential Election, indicating no issues with holding the election. He also commented on speeches made by the SJB and the National People’s Power (NPP) at their rallies. Bandara stated that what Premadasa promised as President has already been accomplished by UNP leader and President Ranil Wickremesinghe, suggesting that Premadasa has no new agenda. Additionally, he mentioned that although the NPP outlined plans for the country, they did not clearly name their candidate for the Presidential Election. Bandara emphasized the importance of supporting President Wickremesinghe’s agenda and extended an invitation to all political parties to join this effort.
Reflecting on the UNP’s May Day rally in Maligawatta, Bandara expressed pride in its success, highlighting the positive outcome of the event.