RW optimistic UNP reforms can be completed by Feb.

• Ranil calls for party unity, formulation of common plan
• Says divisive groups will not help party
• Working Committee meeting not yet decided 

United National Party (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday called for unity and a common plan from members, while expressing optimism that reforms could be concluded by February, placing the party in readiness to campaign for the General Elections in April.   

United National Party (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesi

Addressing a group of lawyers at the party headquarters yesterday, Wickremesinghe conceded that the Presidential Election loss was a setback for the party. 

“We suffered a setback due to the election loss, but we can’t afford to be paralysed by it,” he opined.

The UNP Leader thanked the group of lawyers for their support during the election campaign. UNP General Secretary Akila Viraj Kariyawasam was also present. 

Wickremesinghe called on all UNP members, including future leaders, to unite and formulate a common plan in order to effect reform. 

“We can start in January and move forwards,” he said, expressing confidence that if reforms were put in place by February, the party would be on a better footing to campaign for the upcoming General Election in April. 

He also stressed the need to uphold democracy while enacting reforms. Earlier this week, Wickremesinghe hinted that he may step down from the UNP leadership position, but he did not offer a specific timeline. He also said he would hand over the Opposition Leader duties to Sajith Premadasa when Parliament convenes on 3 January. 

Despite requests by members, it is still unclear when Wickremesinghe may convene the Working Committee to decide on the party leadership issue.