PM on UNP-led alliance: If won prez poll, can remain in power for two decades

By Yohan Perera 

If the United National Party (UNP) led alliance emerges victorious at the forthcoming presidential election, it will be possible for the party to hold on to power for another 20 years, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said yesterday when he met with UNP organisers at Sirikotha. 

“Results of the projects undertaken by the incumbent government will reap within the next five years. This will help the party to gain more electoral successes decades after. No one will be able to shake us if we win the presidential election and then show good results,” he said.  

The premier said the party fielded a youthful candidate to attract the present generation that wanted its issues resolved. 

“The youth of today demands a conducive environment in which they could resolve their problems without depending on politicians. Our objective should be to create such an atmosphere,” he said. 

Meanwhile, UNP General Secretary Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said he would support Sajith Premadasa with all his heart. “Please support us at this election,” he told the organisers.