News Today: Coalition protest Ranil Wickremesinghe hearing highlights unity against political suppression

A coalition of youth wings from multiple opposition political parties and civil society groups has announced plans to gather supporters in Colombo to coincide with the upcoming court hearing of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The protest is scheduled to take place outside the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, where the case regarding allegations of misusing public funds for a foreign tour will be heard.

Among the participating groups are the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Youth Front, Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC), Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Lanka Janatha Party, Sarwajana Balaya, United National Party (UNP), Sri Lanka Greens, and the Progressive Youth Movement, alongside several other organizations.

Speaking at a media briefing, SJB’s “Horaa” organiser Charith Abeysinghe stated that the opposition groups would gather at Slave Island before marching towards the Fort Magistrate’s Court.

“This is not just about one individual—it’s about standing up against political suppression,” Abeysinghe said.

SLPP Youth Front Convenor Hemantha Srilal voiced similar concerns, stressing that the protest’s primary focus is defending democratic principles, not just Wickremesinghe.

“Ranil has been arrested, and other former Presidents could be next. We cannot allow a former leader—who guided the country through a civil war—to face political harassment. If this continues, even President Anura Dissanayake could be prevented from entering his party headquarters,” he warned.

Meanwhile, Dr. Don Wanigasuriya of Sarwajana Balaya emphasized that their participation represents a united stand against political suppression and a commitment to protect democratic freedoms in Sri Lanka.

The gathering is expected to draw significant attention as opposition groups rally to highlight concerns over political freedom and accountability in the country.