Several opposition parties representing minority communities are considering joining an all-party government proposed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
The Democratic People’s Front (DPF) led by Mano Ganesan, All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) under Rishad Bathiudeen and the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) led by Rauff Hakeem are considering the proposal, party representatives confirmed.
President Wickremesinghe wrote to MPs on Friday requesting them to join a national all-party programme to “create economic and social stability.”
DPF Leader Mano Ganesan told the Sunday Times they had received the invitation and were considering the matter. He said the party believed it was not the time to topple the government given the present economic difficulties.
The ACMC’s politburo will discuss the President’s proposal and a decision will be taken by its central committee, General Secretary Ameer Ali said.
SLMC Chairman Nizam Kariapper said his party was closely monitoring steps being taken by the President and would take a decision soon.
In his letter to MPs, President Wickremesinghe proposed to initiate a broad dialogue to discuss steps including the reintroduction of the 19th amendment and the Parliamentary Oversight Committee System.