We Will No Longer Tolerate Political Vendettas – United National Party

25-Aug-2025

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Senior members of the United National Party (UNP) announced that they will not remain silent in the face of democratic violations and political vendettas occurring in the country. They pledged to join with all parties in a collective struggle to defend democracy.

This declaration was made during a special press conference at Ranil Wickremesinghe’s political office on Flower Road, Colombo, on 23 August.

Participants included UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena, General Secretary Thalatha Atukorale, Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene, Deputy Leader Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, National Organizer Sagala Ratnayake, Navin Dissanayake, and Harin Fernando, among others.

Thalatha Atukorale stated: “Ranil Wickremesinghe’s record needs no introduction. His leadership during the 2022 crisis is the best example—he took responsibility when the nation was collapsing and successfully steered the country. It was because of him that conditions were created to hold two elections last year, paving the way for the National People’s Power (NPP) to come to office. Why is the government so afraid of a former president?

Even if we accept that his arrest is linked to corruption charges, has corruption in Sri Lanka only occurred now? Many accused of similar misappropriations have themselves held power. Is it justice that those who rebuilt the country are punished while the corrupt escape?

His London visit was in response to an official invitation to the G77 Conference. How can it be considered a private trip? If so, does the current President travel by public transport when visiting his family? The funds came from allocations made in the 2023 budget for presidential expenses. If it had been otherwise, wouldn’t the JVP have questioned it at that time? He has already retired from politics and merely gives us advice. The government need not fear a retired former president.”

Akila Viraj Kariyawasam added: “We respect the court’s verdict. But the fact that judicial decisions appear on social media in advance raises serious doubts. Are former national leaders being deliberately subjected to political revenge? Ranil Wickremesinghe himself introduced independent commissions and anti-corruption laws to safeguard judicial independence.

Although presidents have historically enjoyed vast privileges, he never abused them. We must unite across party lines. If the government seeks to suppress opposition, we must rise against it. While we disagreed with some of his political actions and distanced ourselves, we cannot remain silent at this moment. A leader who rebuilt the nation should not face such injustice.”

Ruwan Wijewardene said: “During the 2022 crisis, he became Prime Minister even after his home was burned down. Without fear, he accepted the challenge and rebuilt the country in two years. The current government continues with his programs. For such a leader to face this situation is deeply concerning. Are state institutions being politicized? If so, it is dangerous. The people did not expect this kind of system change. All parties must unite to find a solution, or else democracy itself is endangered.”

Navin Dissanayake said: “Ranil Wickremesinghe’s arrest is a dark stain on Sri Lanka’s democracy. This is clearly political revenge. Nevertheless, we will protect our leader and overcome these challenges. This is the best opportunity for all parties to unite against authoritarianism. His London trip was official—we have the documents, which have also been submitted to court. This childish political vendetta must end. Such actions will only strengthen him further. We will defeat this conspiracy and call on everyone to stand with us without fear.”