Former Member of Parliament Harin Fernando officially assumed duties as the Deputy General Secretary of the United National Party (UNP) yesterday (10th), marking the launch of a series of new political and organizational programs aimed at revitalizing the party and building a united opposition against the current government.
Addressing the media after taking office, Fernando stated that his primary objectives are to modernize the party and engage the youth in politics.
“Learn from Ranil” Program for Youth
A key component of this new initiative is the “Ranilgen Igenagamu” (Learn from Ranil) educational program, which Fernando announced will commence on the first day of next month.
A Grassroots Call for Unity
Fernando’s statement heavily emphasized the need for opposition unity. He stressed that there is a strong grassroots demand for the United National Party (UNP) and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) to reunite politically, regardless of the positions of leaders or officials.
He pointed out that UNP supporters initially formed the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, and that if unity is not achieved, SJB voters may return to the UNP. He further expressed confidence that efforts led by the party’s General Secretary and Chairman would achieve a united opposition platform.
New Organizational Drive
To strengthen the UNP’s organizational structure, Fernando has been tasked with organizing 1,000 organizational meetings across the island. He stated that the goal is to “bring the truth to the country.” Furthermore, he aims to make the UNP the first fully digital political party in Sri Lanka by December.
Clarifying his upcoming schedule, Fernando stated that he would spend two and a half days a week at party headquarters and dedicate the remaining time to traveling across districts and provinces.
Through this new approach and youth-focused programs, Harin Fernando is clearly embarking on a mission to reunite the fractured opposition against the current inefficient government.
