Champika Ranawaka becomes independent MP

• Says decision taken according to conscience and not to take up ministerial post
• Insists real multi-party interim Government need of the hour

SJB Colombo District MP Patali Champika Ranawaka yesterday announced that he would function as an independent MP in Parliament with immediate effect.

Ranawaka who heads a civic movement called the 43 Brigade said he has no intention of becoming a Minister in this Government even though he is breaking away from the main Opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya(SJB).

Ranawaka said he had taken the decision according to his conscience and not because he had a personal issue with anyone.

“Both the Government and the Opposition have a role to play in this crisis situation. I foretold this crisis way back in 2013. I also wrote two books about it. We are saddened about this situation. This is one reason I had to become independent,” the MP said.

Ranawaka said the present Government is not a multi-party and interim Government and it needs to convert itself into a real multi-party and an interim Government. “I joined SJB to form a grand alliance in March 2020 and I have become an independent today for the same reason,” the MP added.