Joint Opposition Launches Programme to Protect Sovereignty
13-Mar-2026.
Major political parties in Sri Lanka have jointly launched a new programme aimed at safeguarding democracy, the rule of law and the sovereignty of the people.
Several major parties including the United National Party, Samagi Jana Balawegaya, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, Pivithuru Hela Urumaya, United Democratic Front and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party have joined this initiative.
A special media briefing to explain the programme was held on March 11 at the Amari Hotel in Colombo under the leadership of former minister Professor G.L. Peiris.
Several senior political leaders attended the event including Nimal Siripala de Silva, Duminda Dissanayake, Mahinda Amaraweera, Sanjeeva Edirimanna, Udaya Gammanpila, Champika Ranawaka, Dayasiri Jayasekara, Vajira Abeywardena, Thalatha Athukorala, Ruwan Wijewardene, Naveen Dissanayake, Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Mano Ganesan, Velusami Radhakrishnan and former minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe also conveyed his greetings to the joint initiative.
In his message he stated that the gathering of political leaders under the theme “Let us protect democracy, the rule of law and the sovereignty of the people” is highly commendable at a time when these sectors are facing serious threats and challenges.
He added that unity is essential to successfully overcome the challenges facing the country and reaffirmed that the United National Party would continue to support the initiative.
Speaking at the event, MP Mano Ganesan explained the position of Samagi Jana Balawegaya leader Sajith Premadasa, noting that while discussions are currently underway between the UNP and SJB, Premadasa may join the joint platform once those discussions reach a certain stage.
Professor G.L. Peiris stated that a policy framework for the joint programme is currently being finalised and will soon be presented to the public after obtaining the approval and signatures of all participating party leaders.
He also noted that civil society organisations have joined the initiative alongside political parties.
