Opposition Leaders unite in call to defend democracy

Thursday, 12 March 2026 04:04 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Main Opposition SJB keeps away

Leaders of several Opposition parties met in Colombo yesterday under the theme ‘Protecting Democracy, Rule of Law and the Sovereignty of the People,’ amid calls for greater coordination among political groups outside Government.

In a message sent to the gathering, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe said Opposition parties must work together to address the challenges currently facing the country, noting that unity was essential if the Opposition was to succeed. The message was delivered by United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Attorney Thalatha Athukorala.

Former Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris said Opposition parties should work towards a joint program to address key political issues while safeguarding the distinct identity of each party.

United Republican Front Leader and former Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka said the Government was targeting capable individuals, claiming that administrative shortcomings were becoming increasingly evident.

The meeting was attended by former Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena and several former Ministers including Prof. Peiris, Nimal Siripala de Silva, Ranawaka, Anura Priyadharshana Yapa, Mahinda Amaraweera, Duminda Dissanayake, Udaya Gammanpila, and Tiran Alles.

MPs Dayasiri Jayasekara and Mano Ganesan also participated, along with former MPs Asanka Navaratne, Premanath C. Dolawatte, and Ajith Mannapperuma.

Others present included Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Media Spokesman Sanjeeva Edirimanna, UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene, UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena, and Athukorala.

The main Opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) did not attend the meeting.