By Leader of the opposition, Sajith Premadasa, seems to be facing a barrage of criticism from within his party, the SJB. His recent alliance with G.L. Peiris, Dilan Perera, Nalaka Godahewa, and Channa Jayasumana from the Nidahasa Janatha Sabhawa (NJS) has created internal turmoil despite initial opposition.
Many SJB seniors believe that these individuals, who were key players within the Gotabaya Rajapaksa regime that led the country to bankruptcy, will only evoke public anger towards the SJB. As one political commentator aptly observed, “That regime has been thoroughly disgraced, and there is still public anger directed towards it. Yet, it appears that Premadasa insists on drinking from such a poisoned chalice.”
Dr. Harsha De Silva and Eran Wickramaratne, at a recent media conference held at the party office, expressed their strong stance against welcoming individuals they deem responsible for the nation’s economic downturn into their ranks.
Meanwhile, Sajith Premadasa has begun directing criticism towards Ranil Wickremesinghe, anticipating a tough battle ahead. He questions the President’s ongoing foreign trip during a nationwide healthcare crisis, echoing a point previously raised by Anura Kumara Dissanayaka. Speaking at a classroom equipment handover ceremony in Kalawewa on January 16th, Premadasa further criticized the President for the continued delay in holding local government elections.
It’s undeniable that the SJB possesses a solid voter base, and Sajith Premadasa has earned respect for his principled approach to politics, notably refusing offers of the presidency from Gotabaya Rajapaksa amidst mass protests. However, many political commentators point out that entertaining individuals associated with the nation’s downfall might be a strategic misstep. They believe the SJB, under Premadasa’s leadership, could effectively stand alone while upholding their principles.
