Several Opposition factions joined the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) on a common platform yesterday (12) to launch a coordinated campaign against the government.
The rally, held under the patronage of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Anuradhapura Municipal Council Stadium, brought together national political figures, former cabinet ministers, and northern representatives to criticise the NPP government’s economic and political agenda while outlining plans for an alternative national movement.
The rally garnered heightened political significance due to the absence of SLPP National Organiser Namal Rajapaksa, who remains in remand custody.
Despite his absence, several prominent Opposition figures gathered on the same platform, including former ministers Wimal Weerawansa, Udaya Gammanpila, and Tiran Alles, alongside Jaffna MP Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna, in a move that signals a fresh realignment in Sri Lankan politics.
National Freedom Front (NFF) Leader Wimal Weerawansa accused state authorities of executing selective corruption inquiries that focus on specific political opponents and former military commanders.
He insisted that double standards must be eradicated from state investigations and claimed that foreign forces currently influence executive decisions.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna emphasised his intention to construct a durable political bridge between northern and southern voters.
While referencing his own ongoing legal challenges under the current administration, the Jaffna MP backed an alternative political framework and predicted that Namal Rajapaksa would win the presidential election in 2029.