Unity Among Tamil and Muslim Parties Is an Opposition Issue, Not the Government's: Minister

16-Jul-2026

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Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has rejected allegations that the Government played a role in the recent cooperation among six major Tamil and Muslim political parties, saying the matter reflects divisions within the Opposition rather than any weakness on the Government's part.

Speaking at the post-Cabinet media briefing, the Minister said it was the responsibility of the Leader of the Opposition to unite and lead Opposition parties.

"We completely reject claims that the Government is behind this political realignment. It makes no sense to question us about the Opposition's inability to remain united while its members continue to split into different groups and hold separate media briefings," he said.

"If divisions had emerged within the Government, such questions would be justified. However, we command a comfortable parliamentary majority of 159 Members and continue to carry out our responsibilities effectively."

The Minister said it was for the Opposition Leader to ensure unity among Opposition parties, adding that the Government could not comment on the Opposition's internal affairs.

He also dismissed suggestions that the alliance had emerged because the Government had failed to address the concerns of Tamil-speaking communities or because public dissatisfaction with the Government was growing.

"Such claims are entirely unfounded," he said.