Prez recalls co-operation between JVP and Yahapalana govt., requests Opposition’s help for nation building

by Saman Indrajith

Recalling that the JVP had cooperated with the UNP-led Yahapalana government (2015-2019), President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday asked the JVP why it could not cooperate with the incumbent government for the common good.

The President recalled that JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake had nominated Ananda Wijepala as the head of the Anti-Corruption Office and some docuements pertaining to corruption were still with the JVP leader.

President Wickremesinghe said so making his third policy statement at the commencement of the new parliamentary session.

The President asked the SJB and the JVP to “unite in the pursuit of our nation building dream.”

The President said: “In the interest of the nation’s welfare and the prosperity of our youth, the majority of the Podujana Peramuna have set aside past animosities and reached a consensus. Likewise, longstanding political allies have aligned with the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, including those whom I personally introduced to the political arena. If the Podujana Peramuna can unite for the greater good, why can’t the Samagi Jana Balawegaya follow suit?

“Although we may compete in elections separately, let us collaborate in nation-building endeavours.

“I extend my invitation once more to embrace a shared vision and common purpose for our country. Let us initiate a change within ourselves, fostering unity and enlightenment. Together, let us create a new political ethos, dedicated not for personal ambitions but to the collective aspirations of our nation.”