Senior members of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) who shifted their allegiance to President Ranil Wickremesinghe are reportedly dissatisfied due to the lack of recognition and responsibilities they anticipated, according to sources within the party.
These members, that distanced themselves from former President Mahinda Rajapaksa following the Presidential Election to back President Wickremesinghe, carry a tainted reputation due to corruption allegations. Their past criticisms of Wickremesinghe, which have recently resurfaced on social media, have further complicated their standing, causing significant harm to the President’s image. Allies of the President have noted that these resurfaced criticisms are detrimental to Wickremesinghe’s leadership.
In light of these concerns, Wickremesinghe’s advisors have proposed a shift in strategy, suggesting a fresh start by empowering younger SLPP MPs with key responsibilities.
Reports also indicate that SLPP seniors convened at a hotel in Battaramulla to discuss these developments and the potential loss of influence in both political camps. In a decisive move, President Wickremesinghe has opted to delegate election-related responsibilities to members of the United National Party (UNP), leaving the SLPP seniors sidelined.
Additionally, the recent Supreme Court ruling concerning Manusha Nanayakkara and Harin Fernando has cast doubts on the parliamentary seats and political futures of several SLPP members.
It was also reported that a heated exchange occurred between MP Pradeep Udugoda and Minister Susil Premajayantha during the meeting.
