• Eschews ‘outdated socialist political philosophy’

Neither a party nor a country can go forward with a socialist political philosophy, which is already outdated, and therefore, political parties and individuals must be updated with the new world order, opined the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Acting Chairperson, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva.

He made these remarks at an event held yesterday (17) to commemorate the 108th birth anniversary of the world's first female Prime Minister, former SLFP Chairperson Sirima Bandaranaike. The event was attended by the former SLFP Chairperson and President and incumbent Opposition Parliamentarian Maithripala Sirisena, (the latter whose Chairpersonship was barred by a Court order), Minister Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, and others. Speaking at the event, Minister de Silva also said that the SLFP needs strong leadership at this juncture to lead the party through one of its most difficult times. Stating that former Premier Bandaranaike's life provides a good example of a party leader who allowed the party to be governed democratically, he said that she did not work arbitrarily, changing the party’s Constitution and favouring her close companions, in order to retain power. Responding to those who say that the SLFP must stand with the socialist wings according to its policies, de Silva stated that political parties and individuals must be updated with the new political trends without relying on ‘expired' political concepts such as socialism. He also noted that most of the socialist countries are currently facing crises due to their policies.

Meanwhile, Sirisena said that he would not support anyone who is seeking to betray the party to other political parties with contradictory political views. He said that he has maintained this position since the day he got the party’s membership. He also noted that SLFP leaders would not betray their policies for political positions and other privileges and that therefore, such integrity must be displayed by every member of the Party.