Initial discussions between the United National Party (UNP) and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) which is aimed at a political alliance is positive but there is a long way to go, General Secretaries of both parties said yesterday.
UNP General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala told media that initial discussions between the two parties have been a success. However, she said there is still a long way to go. “We will have to discuss many matters. Both parties are still to agree on a symbol. We will inform the nation about the outcome of the discussions at the right time,” she said.
SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara also said the initial discussion was a success. Asked whether SJBers will go back to Sirikotha, Mr. Madduma Bandara said such an eventuality is not on the cards. “It is not important whether we go to Sirikotha or whether UNPers would come to SJB headquarters. However, we are looking at contesting future elections together,” he said.
Ms. Athukorala also confirmed that both parties are looking towards an electoral alliance.
Both Ms. Athukorala and Mr. Madduma Bandara said leaders of the two political parties will also have a discussion shortly.
Meanwhile, both SJBers and UNPers have come out with various suggestions with regard to a political marriage. SJB MP Mujibur Rahman said earlier during the week that UNPers should be absorbed into the SJB while former Minister Navin Dissanayake was reported saying that both parties should look for a new common symbol other than the elephant and telephone.