-By A Staff Writer
(Lanka-e-News -01.Aug.2024, 11.30 pm) In a surprising political maneuver, Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and Namal Rajapaksha, son of the founder of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), engaged in secret talks aimed at impeaching President Ranil Wickramasinghe. Despite the presidential elections being scheduled for September 21, the meeting underscores a growing effort to unseat the current president ahead of the vote.
The move comes on the heels of President Ranil Wickramasinghe losing his parliamentary majority, following the SLPP's decision to withdraw its support. This political shift has significantly weakened Ranil's position, making him vulnerable to impeachment efforts.
An impeachment would cast significant uncertainty over Ranil's presidency, potentially derailing his campaign for re-election. The political instability it could trigger might further erode public and parliamentary confidence in his leadership.
In response to the growing dissent, President Ranil has been attempting to divide the SLPP by enticing 92 of its parliamentarians away from the Rajapaksha family's influence. This tactic has reportedly angered the Rajapaksha family, prompting them to explore strategic partnerships, such as the one with Sajith Premadasa, to counteract Ranil's maneuvers.
Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa is also keen on stopping President Ranil from running in the upcoming presidential race. Ranil has been accused of attempting to buy support from Sajith's party, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), through offers of money and positions, further fueling Sajith's resolve to see him impeached.
Adding another layer to this political drama, a very influential country has reportedly promised to back both the Rajapaksha family and Sajith Premadasa in their efforts against President Ranil. This international backing could play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of these political maneuvers.
This political upheaval is likely to benefit the National People's Power (NPP) leader, Anura Kumara. Recent surveys indicate that Anura Kumara is leading the presidential race with 59% of the vote. The current developments could bolster his support base even further.
In anticipation of an NPP victory, a powerful foreign delegation is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka next week to meet with the NPP leadership. Their visit underscores the international community's expectation that the NPP will win the upcoming presidential election.
As the political landscape in Sri Lanka continues to evolve, the secret talks between Sajith Premadasa and Namal Rajapaksha signal a potential shift in alliances and strategies, all aimed at influencing the impending presidential election.
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by (2024-08-01 18:32:03)
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