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Saturday Dec 14, 2024
Wednesday, 12 August 2015 01:11 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Sagala Rathnayaka will auction a bat autographed by Sanath Jayasuriya and donate the proceeds toward the welfare of Matara’s children - Pic by P.D. De Silva
Former UPFA Parliamentarian and Sri Lankan Cricket Captain Sanath Jayasuriya yesterday pledged his support to Sagala Ratnayaka, who is contesting in the upcoming General Election, as a United National Party candidate from the Matara District.
Jayasuriya contested from his hometown of Matara during the last General Election, where he emerged as the No. 1 candidate from the district, amassing over 74,000 preferential votes. In July, Jayasuriya chose to step down from active politics and relinquish his role as the Leader of the UPFA for the Matara District.
Commenting on his support for Ratnayake’s candidacy, Jayasuriya stated: “I am very happy to extend my support to Sagala Ratnayake, an immensely capable candidate. His vision for the district demonstrates his deep association with the district and his understanding of the southern people of Matara. He will undoubtedly be a very valuable voice for the people. I urge the people from this district to join me to support Sagala Ratnayake and to help ensure his success at the upcoming General Election.”
In July, Jayasuriya’s mother Breda Jayasuriya stepped forward to support Ratnayaka’s campaign at a grassroots level. Her support received an overwhelming response from the people of Matara. She said: “Let’s ensure that No. 9 is the number that will represent us in Parliament at the upcoming General Election.”
At the occasion, Ratnayaka stated: “I am delighted to have the support of a popular personality of the caliber of Sanath Jayasuriya, who has brought fame and glory to our district. I will pursue the progress of the Matara District in partnership with Sanath. I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sanath for the confidence that he has placed in me.”
Ratnayaka has been actively engaged in politics for 18 years and represented the people of Matara in Parliament from 2000-2010.
