As Sri Lanka’s opposition gears up for a major rally on the 21st in Nugegoda, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organizer Namal Rajapaksa declared, “On the 21st, we are ready to show the government the strength of the opposition.”
Rajapaksa, commenting on the opposition’s activities, emphasized that positions like “Leader of the Opposition” are not necessary to stand up for the people, advocate for democracy, or voice public concerns. He recalled how, during the Yahapalana government in 2015, the then-Leader of the Opposition aligned with the government, while the Joint Opposition effectively performed its duties. He further stated that several parties believing in his ideology are uniting to form a strong opposition force, noting that some in the opposition are unable to openly express their convictions.
Meanwhile, United National Party (UNP) Deputy Leader and former Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam announced that discussions are underway for a potential reunification of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the UNP, believing it would serve the nation. The SJB has also expressed a positive sentiment towards this idea of all parties uniting. Furthermore, several opposition parties are preparing to join the rally on the 21st, with the issue of leadership to be decided at a later stage.
However, a serious accusation has been leveled by Pivithuru Hela Urumaya leader and Member of Parliament Udaya Gammanpila, who claims the government is preparing to arrest him before the rally. Speaking at a press conference in Colombo, Gammanpila alleged that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is misusing the ICCPR Act to arrest him and remand him without bail, based on a statement he made regarding the arrest of former Navy Commander Nishantha Ulugethenna. He stated that he has sought relief from the Court of Appeal through a writ petition concerning this matter.
