-By A Staff Writer
(Lanka-e-News -11.Oct.2024, 9.45 pm) In a surprising twist of political drama, Ranjan Ramanayake, the outspoken Sri Lankan actor-turned-politician, is back in the headlines. Known for his controversial remarks and legal troubles that led to the loss of his parliamentary seat, Ranjan is now reportedly aligned with the United Democratic Voice (UDV), a political party owned by Lyca Mobile’s billionaire founder, Ali Raja Subhaskaran.
Ali Raja, a British citizen with roots in France, has been embroiled in tax controversies across Europe, with rumors circulating that his financial support helped fuel the Brexit campaign to evade legal consequences from Europol. While he remains a contentious figure in both the business and political world, Ali Raja has made significant moves in Sri Lanka, purchasing Swarna Mahal, several cinema halls, and even the LPL Jaffna team. His attempt to acquire Lanka Hospitals, however, was thwarted, much to the relief of local critics.
Now, with his sights set on Sri Lankan politics, Ali Raja appears to be grooming a group of candidates including Ramanayake, Vadivelu Suresh, and cricket star Tilakaratna Dilshan under the UDV banner. Ramanayake, once known for his anti-corruption stance, has raised eyebrows with this alliance. His leaked recordings, where he allegedly discussed his personal life in explicit detail, have further damaged his reputation, fueling speculation about his true motivations.
Despite his vocal campaign against corruption, many question Ramanayake’s decision to align with a figure like Subhaskaran, who has been accused of tax evasion. Critics argue that Ramanayake has “sold his soul” for political gain, contradicting the anti-corruption message he has long championed. His past anti-Muslim rhetoric and questionable personal conduct only add to the growing doubts about his integrity.
It remains to be seen how voters in Gampaha and beyond will respond to this new political alliance. Will Ranjan Ramanayake’s tarnished reputation prove too much to overcome, or will he manage to stage yet another political comeback? As the election approaches, Sri Lankans will be watching closely, ready to decide whether this is a redemption arc or yet another chapter in a long list of controversies.
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by (2024-10-11 16:25:35)
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