SJB Colombo District MP SM Marikkar says that the primary aim of his party’s discussions with the UNP is to create a united right-wing political platform, bringing together all right-wing forces in the country.

Addressing the media at the SJB headquarters in Colombo last Thursday, Marikkar said that the focus is not simply on forming an alliance, but rather on uniting right-wing ideologies. He noted that divisions within the right-wing political camps have led to approximately 2.5 million people abstaining from voting.

He said that while the SJB is committed to uniting the right-wing, they will not align with corrupt individuals. Even if the SJB faces defeat in elections, Marikkar assured that the party consists of only clean, non-corrupt politicians.

He said that the NPP came to power by capitalizing on public discontent and promising to arrest all corrupt individuals and fraudsters within 24 hours.

However, during the 2015 Yahapalana government, significant relief measures were implemented within just a month, including reduced fuel prices, allowances for pregnant mothers, salary increases for government employees, and lower gas cylinder prices. Genuine promises should result in immediate action upon gaining power, yet the current government is failing to govern effectively and is merely offering excuses.

“Moreover, despite securing a two-thirds majority, the current government is displaying arrogance. Both Mahinda Rajapaksa and Gotabaya Rajapaksa once held two-thirds majorities, only to be defeated in subsequent elections. While a two-thirds majority can pave the way for long-term success if used wisely, its misuse can lead to inevitable downfall. The people placed great trust in this government, granting it a massive mandate. However, the government is now deceiving the public. We urge the people to remember the promises made during the election and the extent of the mandate they gave, and to vote against this government in the upcoming local government elections,” Marikkar said.