Damitha Claims Fundamental Rights Violated as SJB Submits Ratnapura Nominations List

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Samagi Jana Balawegaya submitted its nominations for the Ratnapura District to the district secretariat on Friday (11).

However, actress and SJB member Damitha Abeyratne has alleged that she did not receive nominations from the Samagi Jana Sandhanaya for the upcoming general election.

Speaking to reporters, Abeyratne emphasized her commitment to the party and her willingness to contest. "I was nominated for the list by Hesha. I don't need to mislead the public. I have worked on behalf of the party in various districts in Sri Lanka recently," she said. Damitha Abeyeratne noted that she never expressed a desire to contest from a specific district or requested a prominent position.

She revealed that Hesha Withanage, the Ratnapura District Group Leader, inquired why she wasn't contesting from Ratnapura, highlighting the district's lack of female representation. Abeyratne responded that she had not considered asking for a position from anywhere but would come forward if nominated.

She said, "If they deny this, I have evidence to support my claims. I was genuinely excited to be prepared for that." Abeyratne has filed a complaint and informed the Election Commission of her situation, indicating her intention to pursue legal action due to what she perceives as a violation of her fundamental rights.

Hesha Withanage addressed the issue as well, stating, "I believe we received a substantial number of applications for nominations in the Ratnapura District, over 100. However, we can only nominate 14 candidates.

He acknowledged Abeyratne's contributions to the party and underscored the need for a female political leader in the district. He affirmed that, despite the number of candidates considered at the national level, they opted not to bring in outsiders for nominations.