UNP – SJB holds further talks on merger

2026-01-26 - 03:32

A further round of discussions aimed at strengthening political cooperation between the United National Party (UNP) and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has been held at the Taj Samudra hotel in Colombo under the patronage of Opposition Leader – Sajith Premadasa. According to a X message by Mr. Premadasa, Ranjith Maddumabandara, Ruwan Wijewardena, Thalatha Athukorale, Navin Dissanayake, Akila Kariyawasam, and Sagala Ratnayaka participated in the discussions. Today, the SJB and the UNP held another round of successful discussions, which I am hopeful will result in a victorious conclusion. Ranjith Maddumabandara, Ruwan Wijewardena, Thalatha Athukorale, Navin Dissanayake, Akila Kariyawasam, and Sagala Ratnayaka participated in the... — Sajith Premadasa (@sajithpremadasa) January 24, 2026 Sources further indicated that discussions also touched on the upcoming court proceedings involving former President and UNP Leader – Ranil Wickremesinghe. The case, in which he had previously been remanded, is scheduled to be taken up again on Jan. 28. It is reported that the SJB has agreed to mobilize its MPs and supporters to be present on that day. The meeting was part of ongoing talks between the 02 parties, as they look at ways to work together ahead of upcoming elections.