• Says Wickremesinghe has vision and capacity

Former Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Parliamentarian Thalatha Athukorala who recently resigned from her parliamentary seat, pledged her support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday (8), for his candidacy in the upcoming Presidential Election. 

Athukorala made her public announcement yesterday (8) at a rally held in Welimada, it is worth noting that Athukorala first indicated her intentions to return to the United National Party (UNP) and support President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the upcoming Presidential Election in an interview with The Sunday Morning two weeks ago.

Speaking at the rally, the former Minister expressed her confidence in President Wickremesinghe’s ability to lead the country through its current challenges. She highlighted his leadership experience and commitment to the nation, stating that he was the only candidate capable of steering Sri Lanka out of its difficulties. “I was in politics for 20 years — 16 years with Ranil Wickremesinghe and 4 years with Sajith Premadasa. So I do not need explanations on them," Athukorala said. 

She elaborated: "An Executive President was ousted from power by a massive people's movement. He ran away from the party. No one was there to take responsibility. But Wickremesinghe was the only person who came forward to take up responsibility at this difficult time, as he has done in the past."

Athukorala emphasised that President Wickremesinghe's leadership during a period of national crisis demonstrated his strength and determination. She further stated that, unlike other candidates, Wickremesinghe has the vision and capability required to lead the country through its hardships.

“I will be working to ensure the President’s victory at the next Presidential Election because he is the only person with the ability to run the country during these tough times, and a leader with a clear vision for Sri Lanka,” she affirmed.

Athukorala’s endorsement marks a significant shift in the political landscape, as she had previously been aligned with the SJB supporting the Presidential campaign of SJB and Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa.