Prasanna Backs President, But Says Still With SLPP

COLOMBO (News 1st); Minister Prasanna Ranatunga has declared his support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the forthcoming presidential election.

This decision was conveyed in a letter addressed to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, emphasizing the critical juncture the nation has reached and the need for responsible leadership.

Ranatunga expressed his sense of duty and responsibility as a patriotic citizen to prioritize the nation's well-being and the interests of party members.

He acknowledged the significant mandate given to Gotabaya Rajapaksa by 6.9 million voters in 2019 but noted that the reasons for Rajapaksa's resignation were well known and did not require further explanation.

In his letter, Ranatunga reminded Mahinda Rajapaksa that it was under his leadership, along with the party, that Ranil Wickremesinghe was appointed as the successor following Gotabaya Rajapaksa's resignation. 

He affirmed his support for this decision, crediting it with resolving the economic crisis and restoring the country’s financial stability.

Ranatunga stressed the importance of continuity and stability, arguing that the current state of the country does not permit experiments or risks.

He underscored the duty to support Ranil Wickremesinghe's leadership to maintain progress.

The minister clarified that his support for Wickremesinghe does not signify abandoning the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) or seeking refuge in the United National Party (UNP). 

He reiterated his allegiance to the SLPP and his admiration for Mahinda Rajapaksa as his ideal leader.