New coalition ‘Freedom People’s Alliance’ launched 

Maithripala Sirisena

 Dullus Alahapperuma

• Includes SLFP and 10 groups in total including two breakaway groups of SLPP
• To contest under ‘Helicopter’ symbol at LG polls
• Coalition partner Dullas Alahapperuma says will correct mistake of supporting family bandysm 
• SLFP chief Maithripala Sirisena assures new alliance will win 90% of vote

A new political coalition, the ‘Freedom People’s Alliance’, was launched in Colombo yesterday ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections. The new alliance consists of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party led by former President Maithripala Sirisena and nine other political parties as well as independent groups. 

Coalition partners of the new alliance also include two breakaway groups of the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, namely the National Freedom Congress led by the G.L Peiris faction, and the Uththara Lanka Sabhagaya (Supreme Lanka Coalition) led by Wimal Weerawansa. The alliance will contest under the ‘Helicopter’ symbol at the upcoming polls. 

Addressing those gathered, MP Dullas Alahapperuma of the Uththara Lanka Sabhagaya said the aim of the new alliance is to put an end to the corrupt political system in existence. “There is no other fact that is more harmful to a country other than the breakdown of the rule of law. It is the main reason for a country’s deterioration. Our intention is to protect the nation while safeguarding the law and peace so that future generations can live in this country,” he said.

Alahapperuma said many mistakes were made in the past as supporting family bandysm in politics. “The first step to correct the mistake is to accept it. We humbly accept our mistake today. We will go beyond and do everything possible to correct this mistake constitutionally, politically and legally,” he said. Alahapperuma invited all those who recognise and respect diversity to join hands with the new alliance. 

Speaking at the event, SLFP Chairman and former President Maithripala Sirisena said democracy must be established for those suffering to be revived. “This new alliance will be victorious at the upcoming LG polls. We can win 90 per cent of the Local Government institutions,” he said, adding that the group will also contest under the banner in the North and East.