Sarva Jana Balaya Pushes "Modern Nationalism" Agenda

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Leader of the Mawbima Janatha Party Dilith Jayaweera highlighted the concept of "Modern Nationalism" as a key focus for the alliance.

He emphasized the need to move away from traditional interpretations often associated with racism and ethnic division.

"The image in the minds of youth when we say Nationalism, is still traditional," Jayaweera said. "But I would like to rephrase this word as Modern Nationalism as it is more appropriate."

Jayaweera argued that Modern Nationalism is a global phenomenon where countries utilize their resources effectively for national development.

"This is a very common concept used all over the world although it's misinterpreted in Sri Lanka," he explained. "Modern Nationalism is simply using the resources in a practical way for the development of a country to reach its maximum potential. It's used in USA and India, that's the slogan in Modi's campaign."

Jayaweera believes this approach can foster economic, political, and social development in Sri Lanka. He stressed the importance of clearing misconceptions and overcoming past divisions.

"Some groups have falsely interpreted the definition of Nationalism and we hope to go forward with this campaign while clearing those misconceptions," Jayaweera said. "We strive to re-introduce this concept overcoming racism and differences."

Leader of the Mawbima Janatha Party Dilith Jayaweera inked a policy agreement with several political groups on Monday (27) in Colombo to launch a new political alliance, 'Sarva Jana Balaya.'

MP Wimal Weerawansa for the National Freedom Front, MP Udaya Gammanpila for the Pivithuru Hela Urumaya, and Gevindu Kumaratunga for the Yuthukama National Organization signed the agreement.

Speaking to reporters, Leader of the National Freedom Front MP Wimal Weerawansa said the most suitable candidate within the alliance will contest for President.

"We all are leaders here," he said. "The most suitable among us will contest."

"This alliance includes the National Freedom Front, a group from the Uttara Lanka Sabhagaya, the Mawbima Janatha Party, and other organizations," he added. He expects additional groups to join in the future.

Wimal Weerawansa also addressed the social media rumors surrounding Dr. Shafi and the "Wanda Kottu" incident.

Weerawansa firmly denied the National Freedom Front's involvement in spreading the rumors. He claims the National Freedom Front has always maintained a responsible approach in politics and never directly made any accusations against Dr. Shafi. Weerawansa clarified that the stories originated and circulated on social media platforms, not from the National Freedom Front itself.

Regarding the investigation, Weerawansa emphasized that the National Freedom Front did not file the case against Dr. Shafi.

He explained that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) initiated the investigation, not his party.

Weerawansa highlights that the National Freedom Front lacks the expertise to determine guilt and simply requested a thorough investigation by the authorities. He believes there's nothing wrong with urging authorities to conduct a proper inquiry.