-By A Staff Writer
(Lanka-e-News -10.Aug.2024, 11.30 pm) In a controversial move, Sajith Premadasa, leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party, has reportedly turned his back on a key loyalist, Hirunika Premachandra, in a bid to secure media support for his upcoming presidential campaign. This decision comes in the wake of the Supreme Court's ruling that unseated Harin Fernando, the former Minister of Sports and Tourism, leaving a vacant National List seat in Parliament.
Hirunika Premachandra, known for her fiery political stance and long-standing loyalty to the SJB, was initially promised the vacant seat by Premadasa. However, it appears that Premadasa has now reneged on this promise under pressure from the powerful Hiru Media Group. Sources close to the party reveal that Hiru's owner demanded Premachandra not be appointed to Parliament, in exchange for the media group's full backing of Premadasa's presidential bid.
In a further twist, Premadasa is also said to have agreed to grant a presidential pardon to Duminda Silva, the brother of Hiru's owner. Silva, who is currently serving a sentence for the murder of Bharatha Lakshman Premachandra, Hirunika's father, could be released as part of this deal.
Lakshman Fonseka, Premadasa's close aide, is reported to have facilitated the agreement with Hiru Media. Leaked recordings of secret meetings held at a luxury apartment complex suggest that Fonseka played a pivotal role in brokering the deal.
The Hiru Media Group, already under investigation for its financial dealings, including allegations of money laundering and illicit drug trafficking, is now rumored to be channeling significant funds to Premadasa's campaign. Sources also allege that the media group has been making monthly payments to 145 Parliamentarians across various political parties, raising further questions about its influence in Sri Lankan politics.
Reno De Silva, a key figure associated with Hiru Media, is currently under investigation by Europol, though details of this investigation remain confidential.
As Premadasa continues his pursuit of the presidency, this latest development has sparked significant controversy within the SJB and among the broader public. The fallout from these revelations could have far-reaching implications for Premadasa's political future and the upcoming election.
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by (2024-08-10 20:14:53)
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