Will Work with All Opposition Parties to Ensure Transparent Local Governance: Sajith

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa yesterday said his party, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), will respect the people’s verdict and cooperate with other opposition parties to ensure transparent and effective service delivery through local bodies where the opposition holds a majority.

“I will bow down to the will of the people and will work with all opposition parties rather than engaging in confrontational politics. I am willing to engage in this exercise as a person who is always committed to safeguard democracy,” Mr. Premadasa said in a special statement.

“People have put a stop to falsehood and have given a mandate for a truthful and effective service through local bodies. I am willing to lead a political force which ensures this wish,” he added.

“The NPP administration has suffered a setback just six months after coming into power, and the people have given a clear verdict, calling on all parties to work together to develop the nation,” he also said.

Meanwhile, SJB General Secretary Ranjith Maduma Bandara told a media briefing that his party has begun discussions with other opposition parties to form administrations in over 100 local bodies where the opposition has secured a majority. “Discussions have begun in this regard,” he revealed.

“We hope to come to an agreement with other parties in a few days’ time,” he added.

Asked whether the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) poses a challenge to the SJB, the MP said the SLPP is not a challenge, as the SJB had secured more votes and seats in local bodies. “Only the NPP has won more seats and votes than us, while other opposition parties have secured fewer. Therefore, other opposition parties, including the SLPP, are not a challenge for us,” he said.