Rajitha to back President’s nation building efforts

Monday, 17 June 2024 01:44 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

SJB MP Senaratne praises Wickremesinghe’s significant progress in nation-building efforts
Emphasises importance of selecting the right leader, citing risks associated with altering IMF program
Reveals efforts are underway to form a coalition of around 100 MPs to support the cause

SJB MP Dr. Rajitha Senaratne

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Dr. Rajitha Senaratne has expressed his support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Addressing a press conference in Colombo on Saturday, Senaratne said that the group he represents and Wickremesinghe share the same stance and will support efforts to rebuild the country, emphasising that he does not want to be remembered as a traitor.

Rajitha...

According to Senaratne, efforts are currently underway to form a coalition of around 100 MPs to support the cause. He emphasised that there will be no crossovers; instead, the group will unite to support nation-building efforts.

“This Presidential election is going to be a historic and decisive one. The important thing is not who will become president and who will win, but whether this country will be rebuilt or not. What matters is who can rebuild this country,” the MP said.

Speaking on leadership, Senaratne asserted that intelligent choices are crucial, cautioning against altering IMF programs based on the lessons from Greece’s economic collapse. He also praised Wickremesinghe’s progress in nation-building efforts.

“Even amidst the crisis in our country, everyone prioritises their own party. No matter who holds positions, they cannot maintain stability in this crisis. We cannot betray the people. Therefore, we will stand together to save the country,” he said.

Regarding political strategy, Senaratne outlined plans for a new alliance to guide politically undecided voters, suggesting that floating votes may not easily sway towards the National People’s Power (NPP). “The majority of the votes are now floating votes and it is unlikely the NPP will be able to win them over,” he said.

“The IMF is very beneficial. I am not so cynical as to say it is not. Our country is in a precarious situation. If we stray from the IMF guidelines and they withdraw their support, we may not even be able to open a Letter of Credit (LC). This process must not be disrupted,” he emphasised. He said the efforts of the President, in conjunction with the Central Bank and Treasury, will be aimed at benefiting the people.

“There is no merit in gaining power at the expense of destroying the country. I aim to be part of the group that reconstructs and develops this nation,” he further said.