News Today: UNP District Organizer Quits and Crosses Over to SJB

In a significant political shift, Kalutara District UNP Chief Organiser and former MP Lakshman Wijemanna has officially resigned from the United National Party (UNP) and joined the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB). The move follows UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe’s decision to appoint Dr. Rajitha Senaratne as the new Chief Organizer for Kalutara District, sidelining Wijemanna.

Wijemanna, son of former Deputy Minister V.L. Wijemanna, expressed disappointment over the leadership’s decision, stating that he was not informed beforehand. He revealed that he had been a steadfast supporter of the UNP through its most challenging times but now felt compelled to join SJB leader Sajith Premadasa due to dissatisfaction with UNP’s leadership.

Wijemanna’s Statement on His Decision

Speaking to reporters, Wijemanna said:

“I have long worked tirelessly for the betterment of the UNP and never considered crossing over to another party, even when UNP suffered major setbacks. I remained loyal to my supporters and encouraged them to stay with the party. However, recent decisions have disappointed me.”

He confirmed that he met Sajith Premadasa and pledged his full support to Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB). He also stated that a large number of his UNP loyalists were joining SJB alongside him, as they had lost faith in the current UNP leadership.

SJB Gears Up for Elections

Wijemanna emphasized that his primary goal now is to ensure SJB’s success in the upcoming Local Government (LG) elections. He confidently stated:

“We have decided to make the SJB victorious and deliver an unexpected victory for Sajith Premadasa at the upcoming LG elections.”

This crossover is seen as a major boost to SJB’s growing influence ahead of elections, as more former UNP members align with Premadasa’s leadership.