SLPP defectors form new alliance

• PENP backs RW at Presidential poll

By Yohan Perera   

A group of SLPP MPs together with several other parties yesterday formed the Podujana Eksath Nidahas Peramuna (PENP) led by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.  

Minister Ramesh Pathirana will be the General Secretary of the new alliance. The symbol of the alliance is the cup.  

Allies of the new alliance include a section of the SLPP, the MEP, TMVP, EPDP, National Congress, Lanka Jathika Estate Workers’ Union, United Peoples’ Party, SLMP and the Deshapremi Janatha Balawegaya.  

It was announced that the new alliance will support President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential election while it will contest the election for Elpitiya Pradeshiya Sabha from the cup symbol. These plans were revealed by Minister Pathirana at the launch.   

Prime Minister Gunawardena said the new alliance will cater to the new generation.” The new generation looks eagerly at new political developments. Our new alliance will cater to this new generation. We will adopt progressive policies,” he said.   

“ We carry the legacy of our political leaders of the past. Accordingly we will   

 go along a nationalistic path and will follow a non-aligned foreign policy. We will create a bright future for the younger generations. PENP will work towards achieving these goals together with other political parties who are close to us, “ he added.   

“PENP comprises MPs who are able to face challenges. We managed to safeguard our government despite the economic and political unrest in 2022. We will stick together and achieve our goal while being aware that Parliament would be dissolved soon,” he also said.   

To contest Elpitiya Pradeshiya Sabha election on its own   PM to lead alliance