Former UNP MP joins SJB after rift with Ranil

Friday, 14 March 2025 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Former Kalutara District UNP Member of Parliament Lakshman Wijemanne yesterday joined the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), aligning himself with Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa.

Wijemanne’s decision comes a day after a public protest against UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe at a party event held at Sirikotha on Wednesday.

During the event, Wijemanne objected to the appointment of Dr. Rajitha Senaratne as a UNP organiser in the Kalutara District.

His protest was reportedly dismissed by Wickremesinghe, and tensions were visible as the UNP leader chose to ignore Wijemanne during the function.

Following this incident, Wijemanne announced his departure from the UNP, stating that he could no longer support its leadership decisions.