SLFP will maintain its identity within a coalition with SLPP

• SLFP confident it will not be overshadowed by SLPP if coalition formed 
• Reiterates coalition talks will continue after SLPP announces Presidential candidate on Sunday 
• Says 18 parties under UPFA willing to form coalition 
• Duminda says policy framework more important than Presidential nominee

By Nuwan Senarathna

Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) National Organiser Duminda Dissanayake yesterday sought to reassure SLFP voters that their party will remain intact and independent within a coalition including the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), and will not be overshadowed by the latter.  

Duminda Dissanayake

Speaking to media at the SLFP head office, Dissanayake said the SLFP is ready to discuss with all like-minded political parties to form an alliance that can win the next Presidential and Parliamentary Elections, and form a Government that is capable of addressing the country’s existing economic challenges.

“We are looking to form a broader coalition. The coalition should be capable of taking the country forward and developing the economy. We are ready to discuss with anyone if that will be productive for the country,” Dissanayake said.

He noted the SLFP will continue to discuss the possibility of forming a coalition with the SLPP even after their Presidential candidate is announced on Sunday.

Dissanayake pointed out that the country needs a credible policy framework more than a President, to address current economic challenges and create an environment so all citizens can live a prosperous life. “We need a proper policy that can guide the country. Foreign policy is key in that context, therefore whoever the Presidential candidate is that person should not back agreements such as the Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). The SLFP will always protect the sovereignty of the nation.”

Meanwhile, United National Freedom Alliance (UPFA) General Secretary MP Mahinda Amaraweera said during the last few weeks, the UPFA has had lengthy discussions with 18 political parties that are part of their coalition, to form a broader coalition with the SLPP. 

He noted the SLFP would remain independent and will not lose its identity, even if they form a broader coalition with SLPP.

“We want the best for the country, not for us, therefore we will focus on policies that will guide the country towards the path of development,” Amaraweera said.

When asked what would the SLFP do if Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa takes the SLPP leadership, MP Dissanayake said the SLFP is not in a rush to take any action in such an instance, and the final decision will be taken following a discussion with the SLFP Central Committee.

“Talks between the SLFP and SLPP are still going on. So we do not want to take any action against Rajapaksa, otherwise that could derail discussions.”