SJB scotches speculation about Sarath Fonseka’s presidential candidacy

By Yohan Perera
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) reiterated that it officially declared its leader Sajith Premadasa, as the party’s presidential candidate, scotching rumours circulating about MP Sarath Fonseka’s potential candidacy for the presidency.  

SJB’s media spokesperson MP S. M. Marikkar, addressed journalists’ inquiries regarding Fonseka’s rumoured presidential bid. Mr. Marikkar affirmed that the SJB’s working committee had already made the decisive choice of Mr. Premadasa as their candidate. He emphasized that this decision was final and Fonseka would not be contesting the election, despite any ongoing campaign efforts.  

When asked about the relationship between Sajith Premadasa and Sarath Fonseka, Marikkar redirected the question to the individuals involved, suggesting that they should be asked directly about any potential disagreements.  
Fonseka, who served as the Army Commander during the conclusion of the civil war in Sri Lanka, has expressed his intention to participate in the presidential race. He has launched a new Facebook account under the name ‘Campaign Coordinator’ and positioned himself as a national leader and a viable alternative to the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) government. Fonseka has also been actively organizing meetings in various electorates in recent days, alluding to his role as the “only alternative” to the current government.