• Says there are reports of SJB MPs waiting to join the UNP either individually or as a group

By Yohan Perera  

Incumbent Presidential Ranil Wickremesinghe will officially  announce his candidature for the Presidential elections next month,  Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said yesterday. 

“A story is being spread by many, including Samagi Jana  Balawegaya (SJB) that President Wickremesinghe will not be contesting the  Presidential Election that is to be held this year. However,  Wickremesinghe will deliver a blow at all those who make such a claim, as  he will seek another term. He will officially announce his candidature  next month,” Minister Nanayakkara told a media briefing.   

“Wickremesinghe has proven his capability by accepting the  presidency at a difficult time for the sake of the country. He did so  when many others avoided it. Many others ran away from the responsibility,  thinking only of their political future,” he added.  

Also he said Wickremesinghe will not be contesting from a  single party but will represent many forces at the Presidential Election.   

Meanwhile SJB Mulkirigala Organizer Nimal Fransiscu  obtained UNP Membership yesterday from party Chairman Vajira Abeywardena at  party headquarters Sirikotha. Minister Nanayakkara who referred to the  situation said many in the SJB are frustrated about the effort made by  outsiders to take over the party. “Those who were in the Viyathmaga are  joining SJB and are trying to take over the party. Many in SJB are  leaving the party as a mark of protest,” he said.   

“Some are questioning us as to why SJBers did not get on to the UNP stage on May Day. However there is no hurry for such an  eventuality. “There are SJB MPs who are waiting to join at the right  time. They will join as a group or individually. There are others in SJB  who calls for a merger with the UNP. They will abandon SJB Leader and  join us if their demand is not met,” he also said.